Thrift, the opposite of waste, is to use or spend resources wisely or efficiently. The Lord has given us all that we have, and He expects us to be wise stewards by using good judgment in managing our resources. Thrift is often linked to industry, suggesting that we should work hard and spend wisely. Thrift also suggests living within our means, not expending more than we earn.

"And it pleaseth God that he hath given all these things unto man; for unto this end were they made to be used, with judgment, not to excess, neither by extortion" (D&C 59:20).

"There is a wise old saying: 'Eat it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without.' Thrift is a practice of not wasting anything. Some people are able to get by because of the absence of expense. They have their shoes resoled, they patch, they mend, they sew, and they save money. They avoid installment buying, and make purchases only after saving enough to pay cash, thus avoiding interest charges" (James E. Faust, Ensign, May 1986, 20).