In the April 1975 general conference, Elder Marvin J. Ashton gave a talk on personal finance. That talk was later converted into this booklet, and the financial principles found within have been read and practiced by thousands of people. Although many years have passed since the talk was first given, the financial advice given in this publication is more relevant than ever.
Marvin Jeremy Ashton was a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints from 1971 until his death.
Ashton was born in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was the son of Marvin O. Ashton, a prominent local leader of the LDS Church who later became a general authority of the church. The younger Ashton worked in the lumber business as a youth. He graduated from the University of Utah. He served a mission in Great Britain, where his mission president was Hugh B. Brown. He worked as managing director of LDS Social Services.
From 1958 to 1969, Ashton was an assistant to the general superintendent of the church's Young Men's Mutual Improvement Association. He served as assistants to superintendents Joseph T. Bentley and G. Carlos Smith.
Ashton was ordained an Apostle on December 2, 1971 after the death of Richard L. Evans. Ashton was an Assistant to the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles between 1969 and his call to the Quorum of the Twelve.
Ashton died on February 25, 1994 and was succeeded by Robert D. Hales.
Ashton was involved with the Boy Scouts of America most of his life and earned Eagle Scout as a youth. As an adult he was a recipient of the Distinguished Eagle Scout Award (DESA), the Silver Beaver Award and the Silver Antelope Award.
I love how elder Ashton distills financial wisdom and know-how into simple instructions and promises. Those looking to gain/maintain financial freedom would be well served to review this manual at least once a year. I know it's been too long for me. Just a quick read has re-inspired me to be a better steward of our funds.
It's good to read up on financial literature that provides basic principles that individuals, couples and families can live by. I found this to be validating to how my wife and I spend, and how we have learned to be careful with our spending.
I especially thought point 11 was very important with Elder Ashton's counsel to avoid get-rich-quick-schemes. I joined one after my mission on persuasion by my father, but found out in a few months that the group was not what it was cracked up to be. Thankfully, I left that group and went on my way into college--a healthy investment compared to a pyramid scheme.
Fortunately I have unknowingly been following many of the ideas recommended within these pages! Several great reminders along the way, and a couple great points to consider and discuss. Overall, excellent advice. Highly recommend the 15 minute read.
Very important, basic money management suggestions. Some examples/settings are outdated, but the financial tools are just as relevant today, if not more so. LDS author.
If a person or couple were to follow the steps in this book they would be able to get out of debt and become financially independent. An important resource.