The Sacred Side of Car Leasing: A Smarter, Godlier Choice
There’s a lot of negative talk about car leasing, and frankly, it’s rooted in ignorance. Critics often claim that leasing is a financial trap, yet they overlook a fundamental truth: we can’t take our cars, homes, or possessions to the grave. We don’t even own our own time on this earth. Life is short, and our most valuable resource isn’t money – it’s time. Leasing is a choice made by those who understand that reality. Instead of tying up capital in a depreciating asset, we choose to drive newer, safer, and more reliable vehicles while keeping our financial flexibility. Cars lose value whether we lease or buy, just as our bodies age and depreciate with time. Why pour money into ownership when the end result is the same?
Leasing, when done responsibly, is not only financially smart but also a reflection of thoughtful stewardship. It acknowledges the temporary nature of our lives and the resources entrusted to us. By making wise decisions about how we use our finances, we honor the blessings we have been given. You can explore how we evaluate these choices using our Lease vs. Buy Comparison page, where we break down the financial and practical advantages of leasing.
The Problem with One-Size-Fits-All Advice
Dave Ramsey and Suze Orman are two of the loudest voices preaching against leasing, urging their followers to avoid it at all costs. But their one-size-fits-all advice often does more harm than good. While their perspectives may suit those who prioritize absolute ownership, they dismiss the nuanced reasons why leasing can be a smart financial choice. Leasing makes sense for people who value lower monthly payments, enjoy driving the latest models with the latest safety features, and avoid the headaches of long-term maintenance. Not everyone dreams of driving a car until the wheels fall off.
Addressing the Leasing Myths
The arguments against leasing are often built on outdated beliefs and exaggerated fears. Critics say leasing means you’ll have “nothing to show for it” at the end of your term. But let’s be honest – owning a depreciated car isn’t exactly a trophy worth celebrating. Others argue that leasing locks you into endless payments. Yet those same people often finance vehicles with long loan terms, effectively making payments for years with little equity to show for it.
Furthermore, leasing provides predictability. With warranties covering most repairs and no unexpected mechanical failures to worry about, lessees enjoy peace of mind. And let’s not forget the opportunity cost of ownership. The money saved from lower lease payments can be invested, used for experiences, or simply enjoyed.
A Car for Life: Accepting Reality with a Smarter Choice
Driving is an inevitable part of modern life. As long as we are blessed with good health, we will need to drive. Whether it’s commuting to work, running errands, taking our kids to school, or heading out for family road trips, vehicles are essential. Beyond the routine, cars also allow us to explore the world God has graciously given us. From weekend getaways to cross-country adventures, the freedom of the open road is one of life’s great joys.
Leasing acknowledges this reality. Unlike the fear-driven arguments that insist on ownership, leasing provides the flexibility to enjoy reliable, comfortable transportation without financial strain. It’s about making responsible choices – not chasing the illusion of permanence. Owning a car doesn’t change the fact that you’ll always need a vehicle. Why spend years paying off a depreciating asset when you could drive a better car for less?
Understanding the LVR Formula: Real Value for a Temporary Lease
Here at Car Lease Tips, we promote using the Lease Value Ratio (LVR) to determine the best lease deals. The LVR formula compares your monthly payment to the vehicle’s MSRP, helping you identify the most bang-for-your-buck options. Just like our time on earth, a car lease is temporary. Focusing on how much value you receive for your monthly payment is a far smarter approach than obsessing over ownership.
LVR = (Monthly Payment / MSRP) x 100
A lower LVR means a better deal. By applying this simple formula, you ensure you’re getting the most value during your lease term. It’s a reflection of our real-world reality – making the most of what we have now instead of getting bogged down by the illusion of permanence.
Of course, there are bad leases out there – just as there are bad purchases. Dave Ramsey and Suze Orman have blinders on, choosing to focus solely on the negative side of leasing without acknowledging the numerous pitfalls of buying a car. From overpaying at the dealership to getting stuck with unreliable used cars that rack up expensive repairs, purchases can be financial disasters too. Leasing doesn’t mean being reckless; it means being informed. With the LVR formula and careful deal analysis, lessees can make smart, budget-conscious choices that offer both financial security and driving enjoyment.
Learn more about how to identify the best car lease deals by using our LVR Calculator. This helpful tool will ensure you’re making a wise decision that aligns with your financial goals.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the decision to lease is about understanding the value of time and choice. Leasing means embracing flexibility, driving what serves you best today, and acknowledging that possessions are temporary. While Ramsey and Orman may keep shouting from their pulpits, those who lease understand a different truth – we’re not tied to the illusion of ownership. We’re making smart, conscious choices with the finite time we’ve been given. And that’s a financial strategy worth respecting.