WATERLOO - Jeremy and Staci Yoder have always been budget conscious. They've always watched their spending and contributed regularly to a savings plan.

But when they decided to follow God's financial plan, the couple found themselves with a lot more cash on hand.

"I was amazed," said Jeremy Yoder. "We actually spent 40 percent less that year. … It was a savings of $12,000 to $13,000."

The couple attribute the windfall to Jeremy's attendance at a Christian-based personal finance seminar. The seminar was offered by Cedar Valley Community Church where the couple worship.

The Yoders are among thousands of believers who've attended similar seminars and workshops that offer biblically based financial advice. A number of area churches have already offered or have such programs scheduled.

It's a growing trend as more churches are recognizing that there's a connection between people's relationship with money and their relationship with God, says a U.S. News and World Report story.

"We're aware of the fact that our congregation and culture is getting more into debt," said Dave Bartlett, church leader of Orchard Hill Church in Cedar Falls. "We have people who feel like there's something they want to do and because of the anchor of debt they are unable to do that thing they're called to do by God."

Orchard Hill held a seminar earlier this year through Crown Financial Ministries, one of the top two players in the industry. Between 80 and 100 people showed up.

"We were short books," Bartlett said. "That tells me there's a real need, and that people have a strong interest in making progress in this field. The power of that can be found in the Scriptures."

Crown Ministries and Financial Peace University, another key player in biblical financial management, emphasize eliminating debt, living on a budget, building a savings and other money management skills.

"The Bible has a huge amount of references to handling money. If the church is teaching the full gospel, teaching about money is part of the package," said Dan Raymond, program director for Christian radio stations Life 101.9 FM and Faith 1090 AM, which air daily broadcasts by FPU and Crown Ministries.

For example, debt is highly discouraged in the Bible, Raymond said, pointing to Proverbs 22:7 which says, "The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is a slave to the lender."

"A hundred years ago, debt was looked at as something of a sin. Now, it's the American way," said Linda Bowman, who is coordinating an upcoming FPU seminar for Cedar Valley Community Church.

Bowman coordinated the same seminar about three years ago, with about 15 couples in attendance.

"I think the average amount of consumer debt per family was about $35,000," Bowman said. "That just blew me away."

The seminar is even more in demand this time, Bowman said. The mortgage crisis and skyrocketing fuel costs have people seeking sound financial advice. For many, the church is the perfect place.

"People are choosing the church because they expect trustworthy advice, and they expect to not be judged," Bowman said.

For the Yoders, God's financial plan included a strictly cash spending plan and a goal to eliminate debt, including their mortgage. The couple is well on their way, and couldn't be happier.

"Doing what makes the most financial sense as far as getting ahead isn't always the best way," Yoder said. "I came away with valuing that peace of mind and freedom over getting ahead with investments and maximizing every percentage point."

Yoder said in today's culture it's easy for everyone, Christians included, to get sucked into searching for happiness through things. By offering financial classes, churches are helping many Christians free themselves from the chains of debt, plan for the future and, most importantly, helping people keep money and possessions from becoming a barrier in their relationship with God.

Bowman agrees.

"Debt is holding people back. Imagine what people of God could do for the Kingdom of God if they were debt-free," she said.

Go & do:

WHAT: Financial Peace University

WHEN: Seminar preview is 9:30 a.m. Aug. 24. The class will run weekly for 13 weeks.

WHERE: Cedar Valley Community Church

DETAILS: Cost is $93 per family and includes materials. Call (319) 277-6576.

MORE INFO: Other local churches also will offer the seminar. Visit www.daveramsey.com for locations and times.

Contact Meta Hemenway-Forbes at (319) 291-1483 or meta.hemenway-forbes@wcfcourier.com.