Bible Money Matters » bible verse

Happy Easter! Why Did Jesus Fold The Napkin?

Peter Anderson — Sun, 08 Apr 2012 06:10:00 +0000

Happy Easter Everyone! Here’s a post from Easter 2008!

Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead… 1 Peter 1:3

Now if we died with Christ, we believe that we will also live with him. For we know that since Christ was raised from the dead, he cannot die again; death no longer has mastery over him. The death he died, he died to sin once for all; but the life he lives, he lives to God. In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus. Romans 6:8-11

God bless you on this holiest of days. He is risen!

Why Did Jesus Fold The Napkin???

An interesting email I received today:

Why Did Jesus Fold The Linen Burial Cloth After His Resurrection?

The Gospel of John (20:7) tells us that the napkin, which was placed over the face of Jesus, was not just thrown aside like the grave clothes. The Bible takes an entire verse to tell us that the napkin was neatly folded, and was placed at the head of that stony coffin.

1. Early Sunday morning, while it was still dark, Mary Magdalene came to the tomb and found that the stone had been rolled away from the entrance.

2. She ran and found Simon Peter and the other disciple, the one whom Jesus loved. She said, “They have taken the Lord’s body out of the tomb, and I don’t know where they have put him!”

3. Peter and the other disciple ran to the tomb to see.

4. The other disciple outran Peter and got there first.

5. He stooped and looked in and saw the linen cloth lying there, but he didn’t go in.

6. Then Simon Peter arrived and went inside. He also noticed the linen wrappings lying there, while the cloth that had covered Jesus’ head was folded up and lying to the side.

Is that important? Absolutely! Is it really significant? Yes!

In order to understand the significance of the folded napkin, you have to understand a little bit about Hebrew tradition of that day. The folded napkin had to do with the Master and Servant, and every Jewish boy knew this tradition. When the servant set the dinner table for the master, he made sure that it was exactly the way the master wanted it. The table was furnished perfectly, and then the servant would wait, just out of sight, until the master had finished eating, and the servant would not dare touch that table, until the master was finished. Now if the master was done eating, he would rise from the table, wipe his fingers, his mouth, and clean his beard, and would wad up that napkin and toss it onto the table. The servant would then know to clear the table. For in those days, the wadded napkin meant, “I’m done”. But if the master got up from the table, and folded his napkin, and laid it beside his plate, the servant would not dare touch the table, because……

The folded napkin meant, “I’m coming back!”

He Is Coming Back!!!

15 Bible Verses About Thanksgiving And Appreciation

Peter Anderson — Wed, 29 Feb 2012 16:02:29 +0000

Last week I wrote a post about how when we’re in the thick of life, it can be hard to appreciate all of the amazing blessings that we’ve been given. In that post I talked about a virtuoso violinist who stood in the subway playing one of the most intricately written concertos, flawlessly, only to have it go mostly unnoticed. Sometimes we don’t even recognize the blessings for what they are, instead just taking things for granted. While the context of where the violinist played, in the subway, certainly is important, I still think the story speaks to how we sometimes don’t even see or appreciate the blessings God has put right in front of our face.

Today I thought I would look at some verses in the bible where people chose to give praise, thanksgiving and appreciation to God the creator, both for the big and small things in life – even in the midst of strife. I think by giving thanks it helps to give us a new appreciation for just how blessed we truly are, even in the worst of circumstances.

Bible Verses Of Thanksgiving And Appreciation

As Christians we are saved by the grace of Jesus Christ, and that alone should be reason enough to give praise and thanks. But there are so many reasons to give thanks, so let’s praise him continually, in good times and bad!

Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe. Hebrews 12:28

Our salvation in Jesus Christ is one of the biggest reasons to be thankful, and to praise God. Once we accept Him we are a part of the unshakeable kingdom.

Be joyful always; pray continually; give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Giving thanks in hard times can be so hard to do, but I’ve found that when I do it has the effect of changing my heart and my outlook. By giving thanks God gives us hope and a new light of hope.

The LORD lives! Praise to my Rock! May God, the Rock of my salvation, be exalted! 2 Samuel 22:47

God is alive and present in our lives, and gives us a strong foundation for all that we do. He is the rock and foundation of our faith, and should be praised!

Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good; his love endures forever. 1 Chronicles 16:34

We should give thanks to the Lord, for his righteous nature and because of His strong enduring love for us, despite our ugly sinful natures.

Give thanks to the LORD, call on his name; make known among the nations what he has done. 1 Chronicles 16:8

God has done so much for us. We should give thanks and praise to Him, and tell others about all the great things he has done, and can do for them as well.

I will praise the name of God with song, And shall magnify Him with thanksgiving. Psalm 69:30

I think far too often when we talk to God it’s all about us, what we want, what our troubles are. We would all be so much better off if we were to spend more time praising God, thanking him for his goodness and love.

Enter His gates with thanksgiving, And His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him; bless His name. Psalm 100:4

The Psalmist time and again offers praise and thanksgiving to God for the things he has done. We should do the same!

But immorality or any impurity or greed must not even be named among you, as is proper among saints; and there must be no filthiness and silly talk, or coarse jesting, which are not fitting, but rather giving of thanks. Ephesians 5:3-4

As Christians we are to avoid all sorts of immorality, greed and a host of other sins. There should be no filthy or silly talk, or coarse jesting, but instead we should give thanks to God and to others.

But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 1 Corinthians 15:57

We are victorious in Him, and through his sacrifice for us on the cross!

So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness. Colossians 2:6-7

When we become Christians we are told to be constantly in His word, strengthening our relationship with Him and to be overflowing with thankfulness for the things he Has done.

Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, since as members of one body you were called to peace. And be thankful. Colossians 3:15

Time and again in the Bible it tells us how we’re to be thankful, and how this is a trait of someone with Christ in their hearts.

I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who has given me strength, that he considered me faithful, appointing me to his service. 1 Timothy 1:12

Christ gives us strength, and loved us when we were unlovable. He wants to use us, as broken human beings, to reach others for Him. We should be thankful for His favor when we didn’t deserve it.

Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. 2 Corinthians 9:10-11

God blesses us so that we can give and bless others – and so that they will see God’s goodness and give thanks.

I always thank God for you because of his grace given you in Christ Jesus. 1 Corinthians 1:4

Without Christ Jesus and his saving grace, we would be lost.

And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:17

We should give thanks in all things, and at all times to God the father through Christ Jesus. He has given us all we have and saved us from our sin. Giving thanks is the least we can do!

Check out our other posts in the series:

Have your own favorite verses of thanksgiving, praise and appreciation of God our father? Tell us your favorites in the comments!

8 Important Bible Verses About Money For Christians

Peter Anderson — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 15:54:39 +0000

A while back I published a post on this site that gave hundreds of bible verses about money. The verses were all in some way related to one financial topic or another. A few of the subjects covered in the post included greed, saving, debt, hard work, honesty, planning, stewardship, worry and where we can find true wealth.

When I look back on the post I’m glad I wrote it and I think it gives a pretty good picture of how we’re told to view money and how it relates to our spiritual lives. One thing that I thought I could rectify with another post, however, is instead of just having a huge number of verses on the topic, I thought I would write a shorter post giving a few of what I thought were the more important and impactful scriptures, along with a bit of explanation as to why I think they’re so important.

So today I want to give 8 of my favorite bible verses about money, and talk about why I think they’re important for all Christians to know and understand.

8 Important Bible Verses About Money

I’ve read that there are over 2000 bible verses about money and related topics. Why is that? I think in part because our financial lives can quickly consume us, our money and wealth becoming an idol that can overtake our lives. In other words, if we’re not careful about how we view money it can take God’s place in our lives, and lead to ruin.

Because of that I think it’s important that we are always aware of where we place our hope. It needs to be in Christ Jesus, and not money. So with that said, let’s look at 8 bible verses about money that I’ve cherry picked from hundreds available – because I think that they are representative of some of the most important themes running through all the verses.

Matthew 6:24 No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.

This touches on the theme I’ve already mentioned, how money can quickly begin competing for our attentions with God. Money, in some ways, allows us to be more self sufficient and to allow ourselves to think that we don’t really need God. Once we begin to serve money, and do anything to get more of it – it won’t be long before money becomes your master. Be on guard about your need for a savior!

Philippians 4:11-13 Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.

One idea that runs through a lot of the verses is that true contentment doesn’t come from having money or possessions, but instead through having a personal relationship with Christ. I’ve found it to be true in my own life, whether you’re going through life with a lot or a little true meaning and contentment comes not from your circumstances or the things you have, but from above.

Luke 12:15 Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”

There are a lot of verses about greed, I think because it’s such an important topic. It is constantly stressed how we need to guard against allowing our money and possessions to become our life’s defining goal and pursuit. Greed never ends well, the bible makes that abundantly clear with tens of verses on the topic (examples include Mark 8:36, Proverbs 15:27, Proverbs 1:19). Ephesians 5:5 says, “For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person-such a man is an idolater-has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God”

Psalm 37:21 The wicked borrows and does not repay, But the righteous shows mercy and gives.

This is a short verse, but to me it says a lot. It tells us how it’s important to stand by our word, and to follow through when we’ve said we’re going to do something. If we borrow money, we need to repay it. We shouldn’t be deceitful in our dealings. It also tells us what we need to do in order to be righteous. We need to be merciful to others, and live with a spirit of giving. In other words we need to live a Christ-like life.

1 Timothy 6:6-12 But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.

This verse is one of the most often mis-quoted, but still most illuminating scriptures about money. Many people quote this verse, wrongly, as saying that money is the root of all evil. In fact, the verse says that the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. In other words, it’s not the money itself that is evil, but the love of money. It also says the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil, not that it is the root of all evil. Big difference.

In any event, it is just as easy for someone with $100 in their bank account to fall prey to the love of money as it is for someone with 1 million dollars. It’s an issue of the heart and where our focus lies. No matter whether you are rich or poor a love of money will lead to “many foolish desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction”.

It tells us that we need to flee from the love of money, and instead pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. All of which we need God’s help to do because of our inherently selfish natures.

1 Timothy 6:17-19 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.

This verse once again focuses on the importance of being generous to a fault, to be “rich in good deeds” and never allowing your focus to waver from where it needs to be. Don’t put your hope in wealth because it never satisfies.

Matthew 6:25, 33 Do not worry then, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear for clothing?’ For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

I know that worry is a big problem for a lot of people, always worrying about whether they’ve got enough for retirement, if they’ll be able to make next month’s mortgage payment or send their kids to college. One worry replaces the next. While it’s a good idea to plan for your future, there’s also a danger of allowing yourself to worry too much, not trusting in God’s provision – and instead trusting in wealth. We’re told that God will provide for us because he knows we need these things, but there are more important things to do, like seeking His kingdom and His righteousness. When we do that we’ll find that we’re always in his care, no matter what. He will provide.

John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

This last verse, while it doesn’t speak directly to the topic of money, does talk about where we can find true riches, in God’s son Jesus Christ. Jesus came down to earth, lived a blameless life and then died for our sins. Despite all the bad things we’ve done, He forgives our sins as long as we believe in Him and acknowledge our need for Him. We are forgiven and have an inheritance in heaven that we haven’t earned, but are freely given. It truly is amazing!

When I read these scriptures a lot of them come back to the idea of making sure of where our focus in life is. Is it on temporal things of this world like money and possessions, or is it on an eternal treasure that never rusts, fades or disappears?

Do you want to change your focus today and find your inheritance in Christ? You can. Just pray this sinner’s prayer:

“Father, I know that I have broken your laws and my sins have separated me from you. I am truly sorry, and now I want to turn away from my past sinful life toward you. Please forgive me, and help me avoid sinning again. I believe that your son, Jesus Christ died for my sins, was resurrected from the dead, is alive, and hears my prayer. I invite Jesus to become the Lord of my life, to rule and reign in my heart from this day forward. Please send your Holy Spirit to help me obey You, and to do Your will for the rest of my life. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.”

Click here for our more exhaustive list of bible verses about money

Merry Christmas To One And All: The Original Christmas Story

Peter Anderson — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 12:53:07 +0000

It can be easy to get caught up in all the commercialism that comes along with Christmas these days, and allow the focus of the day become more about us – instead of about Him (Jesus Christ). For me, one thing that always gets me back into the celebratory mood is a reading of the Christmas story. Jesus life is the greatest story ever told, and when you think about how it all started with his birth in extremely humble surroundings, it’s even more amazing.

So without further ado… here it is. The original Christmas story.

The Birth of Jesus

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world.

(This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.) And everyone went to his own town to register.

So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child. While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son. She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

The Shepherds and the Angels

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night. An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, “Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ[a] the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.”

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying,

“Glory to God in the highest,
and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests.”

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, “Let’s go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about.”

So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

Luke 2:1-20

God bless and have a Merry Christmas!

Psalm 49: Important Lessons About Your Personal Finances

Guest Poster — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 12:04:28 +0000

Because it’s not what you would call a “feel good” Psalm, you rarely hear it quoted. That’s a pity, because sometimes what we need to hear the most, aren’t the easiest things to hear.

This Psalm gives us some very important warnings about our personal finances and wealth in general. Before I give my thoughts, I would like preface things by saying that these are merely my personal opinions on how interpret these verses. I completely respect if you may read them differently.

Psalm 49:1-4

Hear this, all you peoples; listen, all who live in this world, both low and high, rich and poor alike: My mouth will speak words of wisdom; the utterance from my heart will give understanding. I will turn my ear to a proverb; with the harp I will expound my riddle:

The introduction is quite clear. This message applies to all of us; myself, yourself, and “all who live in this world.” That means we all need to pay close attention to what follows.

Psalm 49:5-9

Why should I fear when evil days come, when wicked deceivers surround me– those who trust in their wealth and boast of their great riches? No man can redeem the life of another or give to God a ransom for him– the ransom for a life is costly, no payment is ever enough– that he should live on forever and not see decay.

If I had to summarize the message here, I interpret it as being that foolish people place their trust in money. The wickedness in the fallen world we live in deceives us into placing our trust in wealth… and that will never work.

Whether we like to admit it or not, all of us are guilty of doing this to at least some degree, myself included. Instead of trusting in God to take care of us, our trust begins to drift into things like the stock market and our home value. The past few years have been strong reminders of why we can’t place our trust in such worldly wealth.

Furthermore, our society is obsessed with boasting about riches and that only perpetuates the problem. I remember a few months ago when I was at the airport looking at magazines, I realized that practically all of them had a cover about getting rich. Those in the entertainment category had covers about how much given celebrities were making and spending. The business magazines had headlines that when taken out of context, sounded like something you would hear on a get-rich-quick infomercial. Even the covers of those in the science category were about how to cash in on the next big technologies. Talk about being surrounded by deceit!

With that type of mentality being shoved down our throats, I guess it’s no surprise how the name of the game these days is all about boasting of your worldly wealth. When you think about it, this deceit is what’s responsible for causing most financial problems – we aim to acquire more (on credit) so we have more to boast about. Being that I operate a credit card message board, you may be surprised to hear that I feel the same way as Peter about credit cards, who loves and hates them. On one hand, when used responsibly (as in, paying in full and not overspending) earning cash back, gas rebates, or other types of credit card rewards might be desirable, as long as its on spending you would be doing anyway. However on the flip side, the problem is that many people use credit cards in a different manner… to overspend and buy frivolous things that they don’t have the cash for. When you boil it down, the reason people are motivated to do this is because our twisted culture instills the “more is better” mentality practically from the day we are born, deceiving us to believe that we need to trust in and boast about our worldly wealth and status.

Psalm 49:10-15

For all can see that wise men die; the foolish and the senseless alike perish and leave their wealth to others. Their tombs will remain their houses forever, their dwellings for endless generations, though they had named lands after themselves. 12 But man, despite his riches, does not endure; he is like the beasts that perish. This is the fate of those who trust in themselves, and of their followers, who approve their sayings. “Selah” Like sheep they are destined for the grave, and death will feed on them. The upright will rule over them in the morning; their forms will decay in the grave, far from their princely mansions. 15 But God will redeem my life from the grave; he will surely take me to himself. “Selah”

In these verses we dive into the contrast between those who place their faith in God and those who place it in worldly riches… and what ultimately happens to each group.

It’s interesting (in a sad way, of course) how true this rings today with the wealthiest people in the world, many of whom do not believe in Christ. For them, they think the way to endure and avoid the grave is to indeed have “named lands after themselves” (whether its cities, company names, impressive buildings, universities, etc). Steve Jobs is an example of this… someone that [in this life] has everything, but afterward he will be one that is “far from their princely mansions.” That is, if he remains an atheist.

A personal finance lesson here is that no matter how much you acquire in life, it is ultimately worthless in the end. Remember, whether you are rich or poor, if you are a believer you already have the biggest prize of all. As someone that probably overworks myself, I am constantly having to remind myself this lesson and recommend you do the same, if you have also have an unhealthy obsession with work.

Psalm 49:16-20

Do not be overawed when a man grows rich, when the splendor of his house increases; for he will take nothing with him when he dies, his splendor will not descend with him. Though while he lived he counted himself blessed– and men praise you when you prosper– he will join the generation of his fathers, who will never see the light [of life]. A man who has riches without understanding is like the beasts that perish.

Peter discussed Psalm 49:16-20 a couple years back. These verses are the ones I want to discuss the most, because if you haven’t already learned this lesson, you can learn from my mistake.

Like many kids in America these days, I grew up idolizing money and material possessions. Part of this was because I grew up in a single-parent household where we didn’t have much and the other part was probably just because of the unhealthy culture which teaches us this message. As a kid, I am ashamed to say I had the utmost respect and admiration for those who were successful in life, by worldly standards. Ironically after being exposed to those people and that lifestyle which I thought I wanted, I realized what a huge “scam” it was, because most of those people honestly have nothing!

The tiny rural Michigan town I was born and raised in is a far cry from Beverly Hills, California, which is where I found myself working as a young adult. I have many, many specific stories which I will save for another post but in short, these people are the poster children for these verses. They are those who:

Grow rich with the splendor of their houses increasing
By worldly standards, they are counted as blessed and even praised (sometimes worshipped!) by others.
However these great riches come without understanding of the truth

What’s the lesson here? As the verse says “Do not be overawed when a man grows rich.” We see these ultra-wealthy people living in mansions, flying on Gulfstream jets, and paying for everything with a black American Express credit card and think to ourselves… I want to be like them! Trust me… you don’t! For the vast majority of them, that entire splendor will only exist in this lifetime.

So if your personal finance goals are to be like these modern idols, you need to rethink your goals… don’t be deceived! I have known the mighty and have known the meager and what Jesus said is true… the least is the greatest.

This is a guest post by Mike, the creator of CreditCardForum, a place for credit card reviews and discussion.

Bible Verses About Having Strength During Hard Times

Peter Anderson — Thu, 11 Aug 2011 11:59:12 +0000

A week or so ago I put together a massive post with well over a hundred bible verses about money and talked about how we need to make sure that we always put God first in our lives before money – and everything else. We can easily allow money to become our master, and God can quickly move to the background if we’re not careful.

No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money. Matthew 6:24

One thing that occurred to me in the midst of listing all those verses, however, is that I never really touched on a topic that seems to be especially important right now in the midst of a double dip recession when so many people are having a hard time. The idea of looking to God for strength in the midst of hard times.

Bible Verses About Strength

Today I decided to bring together some encouraging and challenging verses talking about how and where we need to find strength in the midst of turbulent times. I hope you find them uplifting as well.

Where Do We Find Strength?

Where do we find our strength? In the Lord our God!

Psalm 46:1-3 God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth give way and the mountains fall into the heart of the sea, though its waters roar and foam and the mountains quake with their surging.

Proverbs 18:10 The name of the Lord is a strong tower; the righteous run into it and are safe.

Nehemiah 8:10 Do not grieve, for the joy of the Lord is your strength.

Isaiah 41:10 So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

Exodus 15:2 The Lord is my strength and my song; he has given me victory. This is my God, and I will praise him— my father’s God, and I will exalt him!

Psalm 9:9-10 The Lord is a refuge for the oppressed, a stronghold in times of trouble.

Psalm 34:10b Those who seek the Lord lack no good thing.

Isaiah 26: 3-4 Those of steadfast mind you keep in peace—because they trust in you. Trust in the Lord forever, for in the Lord God you have an everlasting rock.

1 Chronicles 16:11 Seek the LORD and his strength; seek his presence continually!

Psalm 32:7-8 You are my hiding place; you will protect me from trouble and surround me with songs of deliverance.

Exodus 33:14 My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.

Deuteronomy 31:8 It is the Lord who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.

Deuteronomy 33:27 The eternal God is your refuge, and underneath are the everlasting arms.

Psalm 34:17 When the righteous cry for help, the Lord hears, and rescues them from all their troubles.

Isaiah 30:15 In repentance and rest is your salvation, in quietness and trust is your strength.

Don’t Worry Or Fear, Find Your Strength In Him

It can be so easy to give into worry, fear and despair, but with Him we can find strength, and look forward to wonderful things. He gives us hope!

Isaiah 43:1-3 Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you. For I am the Lord you God, the Holy One of Israel, your Savior.

Luke 12:25-26 Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life[a]? 26 Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?

Philippians 4:6 Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.

John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Psalm 34:4 I sought the Lord, and he answered me, and delivered me from all my fears.

Psalm 27: 1-3 The LORD is my light and my salvation whom shall I fear? The LORD is the stronghold of my life— of whom shall I be afraid? When the wicked advance against me to devour me,it is my enemies and my foes who will stumble and fall.Though an army besiege me, my heart will not fear;though war break out against me,even then I will be confident.

Joshua 1:9 Be strong and courageous; do not be frightened or dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.

Psalm 145: 18-19 The Lord is near to all who call on him, to all who call on him in truth. He fulfills the desires of those who fear him; he hears their cry and saves them.

1 Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

Isaiah 12:2 Surely God is my salvation; I will trust and not be afraid. The Lord, the Lord, is my strength and my song; he has become my salvation.

God Gives Us A Spirit Of Strength And Power

Through faith in Christ we are given a spirit of power, love and discipline, and for that reason we have nothing to fear. We can hold onto his promises and be confident that he’ll see us through even the darkest of days.

2 Timothy 1:7 For God did not give us a spirit of timidity, but a spirit of power, of love and of self-discipline.

Psalm 138:3 When I called, you answered me; you made me bold and stouthearted.

Psalm 16:8 I have set the Lord always before me. Because he is at my right hand, I will not be shaken.

Psalm 62:1-2 My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him. He alone is my rock and my salvation; he is my fortress, I will never be shaken.

Psalm 112: 1, 7-8 Praise the Lord! Happy are those who fear the Lord. They are not afraid of evil tidings; their hearts are firm, secure in the Lord. Their hearts are steady, they will not be afraid.

Psalm 91:1-2 You who live in the shelter of the Most High, who abide in the shadow of the Almighty, will say to the Lord, “My refuge and my fortress; my God in whom I trust.”

Hard Times May Come, But He’s There With Us Through Them All

Though we aren’t promised an easy life, we are told that Christ will be there with us when we believe in Him, that he won’t give us more than we can handle with His help, and even our hard times can be used to glorify God.

2 Corinthians 12:9 My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.

Philippians 4: 12-13 I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation . . . . I can do everything through him who gives me strength.

2 Thessalonians 3:3 But the Lord is faithful, and he will strengthen and protect you from the evil one.

Isaiah 40:29 He gives power to the weak and strength to the powerless.

1 Peter 5: 10 And the God of all grace, who called you to his eternal glory in Christ, after you have suffered a little while, will himself restore you and make you strong, firm and steadfast.

Hebrews 4:16 For we do not have a high priest who is unable to sympathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who in every respect has been tested as we are, yet without sin. Let us therefore approach the throne of grace with boldness, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help in time of need.

Deuteronomy 31:6,8 Be strong and bold; have no fear or dread of them, because it is the Lord your God who goes before you. He will be with you; he will not fail you or forsake you. Do not fear or be dismayed.

2 Thessalonians 3:16 Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way.

Strength In Christ Our Lord And Savior

As the verses above illustrate, we’re told to call on Jesus Christ, and that he will hear us and give us strength, hope and a grace sufficient to carry us through. He will be our ever present help when we’re in need, and he can give us a peace that passes all understanding. For me that’s extremely encouraging.

How about you? Do you have any favorite bible verses about strength, and where you can find it? Did one of the verses above stick out more than the others for you? Tell us your thoughts in the comments!

Bible Verses About Money: What Does The Bible Have To Say About Our Financial Lives?

Peter Anderson — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 17:49:26 +0000

This site has been live for just over 3 years now, and in that time I’ve written quite a bit about our main niche topic, the Bible and money. We’ve had articles about giving, tithing, greed, contentment as well as hard work and stewardship. We’ve covered a pretty wide array of topics, and I’m sure we’ll continue to.

One thing I’ve never done, however, is put together a comprehensive listing of important bible verses that relate to our financial lives. I’ve done a lot of one off articles about certain topics, but never put a large number of bible verses about money in one place. Today I thought I’d rectify that.

Bible Verses About Money

The bible has a lot to say about money, wealth, greed, contentment and a variety of other topics as they pertain to our financial and spiritual lives. Over the years I’ve heard it said more than once that the bible has well over 2000 verses about money.

While I won’t be able to list all 2000+ verses here, I want to give a selection of verses in a variety of topic areas.

Bible Verses About Putting Your Hope In Your Wealth

Matthew 6:24 No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and Money.

Matthew 19:21-26 Jesus answered, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth. Then Jesus said to his disciples, “I tell you the truth, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. 24Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished and asked, “Who then can be saved?” Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” Peter answered him, “We have left everything to follow you! What then will there be for us?” Jesus said to them, “I tell you the truth, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields for my sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first

Mark 4:19 but the worries of this life, the deceitfulness of wealth and the desires for other things come in and choke the word, making it unfruitful.

Proverbs 23:4-5 Do not wear yourself out to get rich; do not trust your own cleverness.Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle.

James 5:1-6 Now listen, you rich people, weep and wail because of the misery that is coming on you. Your wealth has rotted, and moths have eaten your clothes. Your gold and silver are corroded. Their corrosion will testify against you and eat your flesh like fire. You have hoarded wealth in the last days. Look! The wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty. You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter.You have condemned and murdered the innocent one, who was not opposing you.

Proverbs 11:28 He who trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous shall flourish as the green leaf.

Luke 8:14 The seed that fell among thorns stands for those who hear, but as they go on their way they are choked by life’s worries, riches and pleasures, and they do not mature.

Ecclesiastes 5:10 Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless.

Proverbs 11:4 Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.

1 Timothy 6:17-19 Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy. Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is life indeed.

1 John 2:15-17 Do not love the world nor the things in the world If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world, the lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life, is not from the Father, but is from the world. The world is passing away, and also its lusts; but the one who does the will of God lives forever.

Psalms 49:10-12 For he sees that even wise men die; the stupid and the senseless alike perish and leave their wealth to others. Their inner thought is that their houses are forever and their dwelling places to all generations; they have called their lands after their own names. But man in his pomp will not endure; he is like the beasts that perish.

Psalm 62:10 ..if riches increase, do not set your heart on them

Luke 16:14 The Pharisees, who loved money, heard all this and were sneering at Jesus He said to them, “You are the ones who justify yourselves in the eyes of others, but God knows your hearts. What people value highly is detestable in God’s sight.”
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Bible Verses About Contentment

Philippians 4:11-13 Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.

1 Timothy 6:6-12 But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. People who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. But you, man of God, flee from all this, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of the faith. Take hold of the eternal life to which you were called when you made your good confession in the presence of many witnesses.

2 Cor. 12:9-10 “And He has said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for power is perfected in weakness” …Therefore I am well content with weaknesses, with insults, with distresses, with persecutions, with difficulties, for Christ’s sake; for when I am weak, then I am strong.”

Romans 8:28 And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.

Job 36:11 If they obey and serve him, they will spend the rest of their days in prosperity and their years in contentment.

Proverbs 19:23 The fear of the LORD leads to life; then one rests content, untouched by trouble.
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Bible Verses About Giving

2 Corinthians 9:7 Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.

1 Corinthians 13:3 If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing.

Luke 6:32-35 “If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even ‘sinners’ love those who love them. And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even ‘sinners’ do that. And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even ‘sinners’ lend to ‘sinners,’ expecting to be repaid in full. But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.

Proverbs 3:27 Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it.

Proverbs 22:9 The generous will themselves be blessed, for they share their food with the poor.

Matthew 6:2-5 “So when you give to the needy, do not announce it with trumpets, as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and on the streets, to be honored by others. Truly I tell you, they have received their reward in full. 3 But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, 4 so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.

Deuteronomy 16:17 Each of you must bring a gift in proportion to the way the LORD your God has blessed you.

Proverbs 21:26 All day long he craves for more, but the righteous give without sparing.

Proverbs 14:31 Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.
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Bible Verses About Greed

Proverbs 15:27 He who is greedy for gain troubles his own house, but he who hates bribes will live.

Proverbs 1:19 So are the ways of everyone who is greedy for gain. It takes away the life of its owners.

1 Corinthians 5:11 But now I am writing you that you must not associate with anyone who calls himself a brother but is sexually immoral or greedy, an idolater or a slanderer, a drunkard or a swindler. With such a man do not even eat.

Ecclesiastes 5:10 As goods increase, so do those who consume them. And what benefit are they to the owners except to feast their eyes on them?

Proverbs 28:22 A stingy man is eager to get rich and is unaware that poverty awaits him.

Proverbs 28:25 A greedy man stirs up dissension, but he who trusts in the LORD will prosper

Mark 8:36 What good is it for a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?

Luke 12:15 Then he said to them, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; a man’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”

1 Corinthians 6:10 nor thieves nor the greedy nor drunkards nor slanderers nor swindlers will inherit the kingdom of God.

Ephesians 5:5 For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person-such a man is an idolater-has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God

1 Thessalonians 2:5 You know we never used flattery, nor did we put on a mask to cover up greed-God is our witness.

1 Peter 5:2 Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers-not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve;
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Bible Verses About Debt

Romans 13:8 Let no debt remain outstanding except the continuing debt to love on another..

Proverbs 22:7 The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.

Psalm 37:21 The wicked borrows and does not repay, But the righteous shows mercy and gives.

Matthew 5:42 Give to him who asks you, and from him who wants to borrow from you do not turn away.

Luke 6:35 But love your enemies, do good, and lend, hoping for nothing in return; and your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High.

Matthew 6:24 No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money.

Romans 13:8 Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law.

Proverbs 22:26–27 Do not be one of those who shakes hands in a pledge, one of those who is surety for debts; if you have nothing with which to pay, why should he take away your bed from under you?
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Bible Verses About Being Ethical And Not Cheating Others

Proverbs 13:11 Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.

Proverbs 22:16 Whoever oppresses the poor for his own increase and whoever gives to the rich, both come to poverty.

Proverbs 12:2 Good people obtain favor from the LORD, but he condemns those who devise wicked schemes.

Proverbs 22:1 A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, loving favor rather than silver and gold.

Proverbs 12:22 The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in people who are trustworthy.

Proverbs 28:8 Whoever increases wealth by taking interest or profit from the poor amasses it for another, who will be kind to the poor.

James 5:4-6 Look! The wages you failed to pay the workers who mowed your fields are crying out against you. The cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord Almighty. You have lived on earth in luxury and self-indulgence. You have fattened yourselves in the day of slaughter. You have condemned and murdered the innocent one, who was not opposing you.

Proverbs 29:27 An unjust man is an abomination to the just: and he that is upright in the way is abomination to the wicked.

1 Thessalonians 4:6-7 and that in this matter no one should wrong or take advantage of a brother or sister. The Lord will punish all those who commit such sins, as we told you and warned you before. For God did not call us to be impure, but to live a holy life.

Proverbs 20:10 False weights and measures— the LORD detests them both.

Proverbs 13:22 A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children, but a sinner’s wealth is stored up for the righteous.
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Bible Verses About Working Hard And Laziness

Proverbs 10:4 Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.

Colossians 3:23 And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.

Proverbs 12:24 Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor.

Proverbs 12:11 Those who work their land will have abundant food, but those who chase fantasies have no sense.

Proverbs 14:23 All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.

Proverbs 12:27 The lazy do not roast any game, but the diligent feed on the riches of the hunt.

Proverbs 13:4 A sluggard’s appetite is never filled, but the desires of the diligent are fully satisfied.
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Bible Verses About The Need For Rest

Exodus 23:12 Six days you are to do your work, but on the seventh day you shall cease from labor so that your ox and your donkey may rest, and the son of your female slave, as well as your stranger, may refresh themselves.

Psalm 127:2 In vain you rise early and stay up late,toiling for food to eat— for he grants sleep to those he loves.

Genesis 2:2-3 By the seventh day God had finished the work he had been doing; so on the seventh day he rested from all his work.Then God blessed the seventh day and made it holy, because on it he rested from all the work of creating that he had done.

Matthew 11:28-30 Come to me, all who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn from me, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.
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Bible Verses About Planning Ahead

Proverbs 13:16 A wise man thinks ahead; a fool doesn’t, and even brags about it!

Luke 14:28-30 “For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it—lest, after he has laid the foundation, and is not able to finish, all who see it begin to mock him, saying ‘This man began to build and was not able to finish’?”

Proverbs 6:6-8 Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler,yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.

Proverbs 16: 9 In their hearts humans plan their course, but the LORD establishes their steps.

Proverbs 27:23 Be diligent to know the state of your flocks, and attend to your herds.

Proverbs 14:29 He who is impulsive exalts folly
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Bible Verses About Saving

Proverbs 21:20 The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.

Proverbs 21:5 The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.

Genesis 41:34-36 Let Pharaoh appoint commissioners over the land to take a fifth of the harvest of Egypt during the seven years of abundance. They should collect all the food of these good years that are coming and store up the grain under the authority of Pharaoh, to be kept in the cities for food. This food should be held in reserve for the country, to be used during the seven years of famine that will come upon Egypt, so that the country may not be ruined by the famine.

1 Corinthians 16:2 On the first day of every week, each one of you should set aside a sum of money in keeping with your income, saving it up, so that when I come no collections will have to be made.

Proverbs 27:12 The prudent see danger and take refuge,but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.

Proverbs 30:24-25 Four things on earth are small, yet they are extremely wise: Ants are creatures of little strength, yet they store up their food in the summer;
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Bible Verses About Stewardship

1 Timothy 6:17-19 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.

Romans 14:8 For if we live, we live for the Lord, or if we die, we die for the Lord; therefore whether we live or die, we are the Lord’s.

Matthew 25:14-30 Again, it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted his wealth to them. To one he gave five bags of gold, to another two bags, and to another one bag, each according to his ability. Then he went on his journey. The man who had received five bags of gold went at once and put his money to work and gained five bags more. So also, the one with two bags of gold gained two more. But the man who had received one bag went off, dug a hole in the ground and hid his master’s money. After a long time the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them. The man who had received five bags of gold brought the other five. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with five bags of gold. See, I have gained five more.’“His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ The man with two bags of gold also came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘you entrusted me with two bags of gold; see, I have gained two more.’ His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!’ Then the man who had received one bag of gold came. ‘Master,’ he said, ‘I knew that you are a hard man, harvesting where you have not sown and gathering where you have not scattered seed. So I was afraid and went out and hid your gold in the ground. See, here is what belongs to you.’His master replied, ‘You wicked, lazy servant! So you knew that I harvest where I have not sown and gather where I have not scattered seed? Well then, you should have put my money on deposit with the bankers, so that when I returned I would have received it back with interest.‘So take the bag of gold from him and give it to the one who has ten bags. For whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. And throw that worthless servant outside, into the darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’

Luke 12:47-48 The servant who knows the master’s will and does not get ready or does not do what the master wants will be beaten with many blows. 48 But the one who does not know and does things deserving punishment will be beaten with few blows. From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded; and from the one who has been entrusted with much, much more will be asked.
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Bible Verses About Seeking Godly Guidance And Wisdom

Proverbs 12: 1 Whoever loves discipline loves knowledge, but whoever hates correction is stupid.

Proverbs 22:6 Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.

Proverbs 13:13 Whoever scorns instruction will pay for it, but whoever respects a command is rewarded.

Proverbs 12:15 The way of fools seems right to them, but the wise listen to advice.

Proverbs 1:5 A wise man will hear and increase learning, and a man of understanding will attain wise counsel.

Proverbs 13:1 A wise son heeds his father’s instruction, but a mocker does not respond to rebukes.

Proverbs 13:18 Whoever disregards discipline comes to poverty and shame, but whoever heeds correction is honored.
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Bible Verses About Trusting In God’s Provision

Philippians 4:19 And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

Matthew 6:25, 33 Do not worry then, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear for clothing?’ For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.

1 Peter 5:6-7 Therefore humble yourselves under the mighty hand of God, that He may exalt you at the proper time, casting all your anxiety on Him, because He cares for you.

Matthew 6:26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?

Luke 12:7 Indeed, the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear; you are more valuable than many sparrows.

Luke 12:28 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today, and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, how much more will he clothe you—you of little faith!

2 Corinthians 9:8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that always having all sufficiency in everything; you may have an abundance for every good deed;

Romans 8:32 He who did not spare his own Son, but gave him up for us all—how will he not also, along with him, graciously give us all things?

Deuteronomy 8:18 But remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today.

James 1:17 Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.

Psalm 37:4 Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you the desires of your heart.
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Bible Verses About Worry

Matthew 6:25-26 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?”

Hebrews 13:6 So we say with confidence,“The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can mere mortals do to me?”

Matthew 6:34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Philippians 4:6 Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.

1 Peter 5:7 Cast all your anxiety on him because he cares for you.

John 14:27 Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. I do not give to you as the world gives. Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

Luke 12:25 And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life?

Psalm 56:3 When I am afraid, I put my trust in you.

Proverbs 3:5-6 Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.
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Bible Verses About True Wealth In Christ

Luke 16:10-12 Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much. So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches? And if you have not been trustworthy with someone else’s property, who will give you property of your own?

Matthew 6:21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life.

Ephesians 1:17-21 I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better. I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people,and his incomparably great power for us who believe. That power is the same as the mighty strength he exerted when he raised Christ from the dead and seated him at his right hand in the heavenly realms, far above all rule and authority, power and dominion, and every name that is invoked, not only in the present age but also in the one to come.

Romans 5:8 But God demonstrates His own love toward us, in that while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us.

Ephesians 2:8-9 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; not as a result of works, so that no one may boast.

Colossians 2:6-7 Therefore as you have received Christ Jesus the Lord, so walk in Him, having been firmly rooted and now being built up in Him and established in your faith, just as you were instructed, and overflowing with gratitude.
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Do you have your own favorite bible verses about money, hard work, worry, provision or other topics that relate to our financial lives? Leave us a comment below with your favorite verses.

8 Important Bible Verses About Money For Christians To Know

God’s Provident Plan: Giving

Paul Williams — Mon, 15 Nov 2010 13:00:40 +0000

A while back I examined how I view what the Bible says about personal finance. There was a brief introduction to something I like to call God’s Provident Plan, and I planned on looking at several aspects of God’s Provident Plan in a 4 part series. This is the last post in that series in which I’ll share what I’ve discovered about personal finance in the Bible. In past writings we examined the importance of contentment in Christ, God’s exhortation for diligent work and good stewardship, and we gave a Biblical view of prosperity. Today, we’ll take an in depth look at what the Bible says about giving.

Giving

Giving is the pinnacle of God’s Provident Plan for personal finance. All other aspects of His Provident Plan point to this end. I’ve touched on this throughout and you may have noticed that pattern.

Through our contentment in Christ, we spend less so we have more to give. Our hard work provides more income so we’ll have more to give. By good stewardship we avoid wasting what God has given us so we will have more to give. Our prosperity comes from God not so we can make ourselves richer but so we can give even more. God’s Provident Plan is completely focused on others – on how we can glorify God by laying down our lives and our wants for the needs of others.

It is through our giving that we speak the loudest as to whom we serve – God or Money. This is the area of our finances where we are most likely to show God’s love to others and have the opportunity to be a witness for Jesus. When we fully grasp God’s Provident Plan, we’ll see that giving in the New Covenant actually has nothing to do with tithing or percentages. It’s not about requirements, rules, obligations, or blessings or curses.

Our giving is to be completely motivated by love – joyous and cheerful as we realize that our sacrifice is not loss but gain in Christ. We give freely, generously, and sacrificially not out of compulsion or commandment but out of our joy and contentment in Christ. Such giving is a sign of our total commitment to Christ and His teaching, and it’s a very powerful witness to the world.

Giving that honors God starts with giving yourself to Him first. Consider the Christians in Macedonia. In 2 Corinthians 8:1-5 Paul says:

1 And now, brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. 2 Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. 3 For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, 4 they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints. 5 And they did not do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God’s will. 2 Corinthians 8:1-5 (NIV)

These Christians were only able to give as generously and joyously as they did because they gave themselves to God first. They fully subjected their will to His will. This was not motivated by a command or requirement – their giving flowed out of their response to the love of God. As Paul urges the Corinthians to give to the needs of the poor brothers in Judea in 2 Corinthians 8:8-9 he says:

8 I am not commanding you, but I want to test the sincerity of your love by comparing it with the earnestness of others. 9 For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sakes he became poor, so that you through his poverty might become rich. 2 Corinthians 8:8-9 (NIV)

The most powerful motivation we can have for giving generously to glorify God’s name is to look at His abounding and extravagant love in sacrificing His Son for our sins. We need only look at the gift Jesus gave us when He died on the Cross and freed us from the condemnation that we deserve. Focusing on the generosity of God enables us to understand the joy of sacrificial and generous giving that’s motivated by pure love.

This is why we give under grace and not a commandment. God is seeking our devotion to Him – not our money. 2 Corinthians 9:7 says:

Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NIV)

Cheerful giving comes not from observing laws and commandments. It’s a response motivated by love as God’s Spirit dwells in us. God cares for the poor, and when His Spirit dwells in us then we’ll begin to care for the poor just as He does. Our cheerful and joyful giving shows that God’s love, concern, and compassion for the needy is present in our hearts. The motivation of love is so important in our giving that in 1 Corinthians 13:3 Paul says:

If I give all I possess to the poor and surrender my body to the flames, but have not love, I gain nothing. 1 Corinthians 13:3 (NIV)

In the 72 verses I’ve found where Jesus teaches about giving, I’ve only found 8 where He talked about tithing. Instead of focusing on percentages, Jesus talked mostly about generosity and giving that’s motivated by love. For example, in Luke 6:32-35 Jesus said:

32 “If you love those who love you, what credit is that to you? Even ‘sinners’ love those who love them. 33 And if you do good to those who are good to you, what credit is that to you? Even ‘sinners’ do that. 34 And if you lend to those from whom you expect repayment, what credit is that to you? Even ‘sinners’ lend to ‘sinners,’ expecting to be repaid in full. 35 But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be sons of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked. Luke 6:32-35 (NIV)

I can’t point to some Bible verses and expect that to motivate you to love your enemies, do good to them, and give to them. Loving your enemies doesn’t happen by following some rules and guidelines. The love Jesus is talking about here does not come from within you or by your own power – it comes from God. The same is true of generous, joyful, sacrificial giving that pleases God – it happens when God’s Spirit lives in you and your focus is completely on serving Him.

Following God’s Provident Plan

Following God’s Provident Plan for our personal finances has enormous implications for our lives. It goes against every motive the world gives us for why we should manage our finances well. Instead of focusing on what’s in it for us, we look at what’s in it for God and others. But we know that the rewards God has for us far outweigh the deceitful and false promises of worldly riches.

As you walk with God and grow in the likeness of Christ, I pray that His Holy Spirit will open your eyes to the truth of His plan for your personal finances. Just as we must give ourselves to God in every other area of our lives, we must also learn to follow His will for our personal finances. We are all at different points in this journey, but we can encourage and admonish each other to remember the riches we have in Christ and live in a way that shows where our hearts are focused.

God’s Provident Plan: Prosperity

Paul Williams — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 14:18:28 +0000

Earlier, I laid the foundation for how I studied personal finance in the Bible. I gave you a light introduction to what I call God’s Provident Plan and promised we’d look at each aspect in more depth. This is the third part of a series in which I’ll share what I’ve discovered about personal finance in the Bible. Previously, we’ve talked about the importance of contentment in Christ and God’s call for diligent work and good stewardship. Today, we’ll look at what the Bible says about prosperity.

Prosperity

As we follow God’s teaching on contentment, diligent work, and good stewardship, He will bless and prosper us. When we think about prosperity our focus needs to be on having God’s view of prosperity and its purpose. Prosperity can come in many other ways than just material blessings, and God wants us to use our prosperity to honor Him – not make ourselves more comfortable. When God prospers us, it’s so we can further glorify Him as we give more and more to those in need.

God prospers us to meet our material needs. Jesus promised that God knows what we need and will provide for us but we should focus on seeking His kingdom first.

31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Matthew 6:31-33 (NIV)

Note that Jesus said our Father knows that we need food, drink, and clothing. He didn’t say that our Father knows we need bigger houses, faster cars, name-brand clothes, and more gadgets. Our Father knows our needs and He will meet those needs as we seek His kingdom and righteousness first.

But God also prospers us to meet our spiritual needs. The abundance that God blesses us with can be used to meet the needs of others. In 2 Corinthians 9, Paul asks the Corinthian church to complete their desire to give to the poor Christians in Jerusalem who were suffering from a famine. He provides wonderful counsel for the Christians in Corinth about God’s ability to bless them so they can be a blessing.

8 And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.

10 Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness. 11 You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God. 2 Corinthians 9:8,10-11 (NIV)

God is able to prosper us so that we can be generous at every opportunity we find. It is up to us to use that opportunity to honor Him instead of following the worldly path of honoring ourselves. This is one of the main problems with the so-called “prosperity gospel”. Even though the “prosperity gospel” is false, there are small nuggets of truth in it that get warped into something ungodly. God desires to bless us so He can meet our needs – both physical and spiritual. But wealthy Christians are called not to merely go through life enjoying the wealth God has blessed them with but to use that wealth to honor God and help others.

When God makes Christians rich, it isn’t for our own benefit only – it’s so we can glorify His name by being obedient to our confession of the Good News of Jesus Christ. Our response to that Good News should be unending thankfulness and amazing generosity – not a desire to spend lavishly and extravagantly on ourselves.

We must understand why the teachings of the “prosperity gospel” are false. We do not give to get and we cannot buy God’s blessings. That kind of giving is motivated by greed, but the kind of giving God desires is motivated by love. God is not our personal ATM. We can’t just name what blessings we want and expect to get them. James warns against this in James 4:3:

When you ask, you do not receive, because you ask with wrong motives, that you may spend what you get on your pleasures. James 4:3 (NIV)

We are to pray as Jesus did – not my will, but Yours be done. We must understand that it is not God’s will to make all Christians rich. Our daily bread doesn’t mean give us fancy cars and bigger houses – it means just enough. Contentment in Christ doesn’t require abundant possessions – we can be happy with just food and clothing. We should not expect to be rich and have easy lives as we follow Christ. In fact, Jesus warned us that life will be difficult and trying. He told His disciples:

2 They will put you out of the synagogue; in fact, a time is coming when anyone who kills you will think he is offering a service to God. 3 They will do such things because they have not known the Father or me.

33 I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world. John 16:2-3, 33 (NIV)

And finally, we must understand that poverty does not simply come from a lack of faith or disobedience. Jesus blessed the poor and taught us to honor them – not revile them. He cursed the rich and warned them of the dangers they face because of their wealth. Many of the most faithful Christians have been poor and destitute – Jesus’ disciples did not become rich and powerful by the world’s standards. These are all reasons why we must have a Biblical understanding of prosperity – so we can guard against false teaching and refute it.

Be sure to check in next week when we’ll look at what the Bible says about giving and wrap up this series!

God’s Provident Plan: Diligent Work And Good Stewardship

Paul Williams — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 14:32:33 +0000

Earlier, I laid the foundation for how I studied personal finance in the Bible. I gave you a light introduction to what I call God’s Provident Plan and promised we’d look at each aspect in more depth. This is the second part of a series in which I’ll share what I’ve discovered about personal finance in the Bible. Last week, we talked about the importance of contentment in Christ. Today, we’ll look at God’s call for diligent work and good stewardship.

Diligent Work

Where contentment helps us to spend less on ourselves, understanding God’s call to work diligently helps us earn more money. As the gap between our spending and our income grows, we are left with more and more to manage wisely, prosper, and give generously to the needs of others. The attitude and spirit we have as we approach our work can also glorify and honor God’s name. We can be a witness to the goodness of God in how we deal with people in our businesses and our motivation in our work.

From the beginning of creation, part of our purpose was to work. When God created Adam, He assigned Adam the task of working in the Garden of Eden.

The LORD God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of it. Genesis 2:15 (NIV)

Additionally, we need to work to meet our needs. Proverbs 28:19 says:

He who works his land will have abundant food, but the one who chases fantasies will have his fill of poverty. Proverbs 28:19 (NIV)

We can use the abundance that comes from diligent work to meet our needs and to meet the needs of others. Paul exhorted his fellow Christians to work precisely for those reasons. Ephesians 4:28 says:

He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need. Ephesians 4:28 (NIV)

Paul lived out the example of diligent work by meeting his own needs while he was serving among the brothers. Acts 20:34-35 says:

34 You yourselves know that these hands of mine have supplied my own needs and the needs of my companions. 35 In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Acts 20:34-35 (NIV)

The Bible warns against the dangers of laziness because it brings poverty, dishonor, and difficulties in life. God wants to protect us from these dangers, and that’s part of the reason He calls us to work hard. But in following God’s call to work hard, we must not forget our need for rest. God wants us to rest because He knows we need it. We will do our best work for Him and others when we balance diligence and a strong work ethic with the wisdom to know when to take our rest.

Finally, we can honor God by reflecting His character in our business and work. God values fairness, justice, integrity, and careful stewardship. These are values that we should use in our businesses and as we work for our employers. As the Spirit works through us, we will naturally follow God’s will in our work. But identifying the values and ethics God teaches us in the Bible can help us better serve Him as we grow in the likeness of Christ.

Good Stewardship

While the Bible says little about financial planning as we know it today, God has shown us the value of using wisdom and prudence in managing our affairs. There are verses that speak to planning ahead, saving, avoiding debt, and other practical matters we will encounter in our personal finances. By wisely managing the blessings God provides (that gap between our income and our spending), we can be good stewards and have even more to give in His name.

Good stewardship starts with understanding that God is the Creator of all things, the Owner of all things, and the Giver of all things.

In the beginning God created the heavens and the earth. Genesis 1:1 (NIV)

1 The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it; 2 for he founded it upon the seas and established it upon the waters. Psalm 24:1-2 (NIV)

And David says in 1 Chronicles 29:14:

But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand. 1 Chronicles 29:14 (NIV)

The fact that God created all things, owns all things, and gives us all that we have should profoundly shape our lives. When we start to see our lives through the lens of God’s ownership, we make decisions based on eternal results. How you spend your money, what you buy, how you spend your time, your plans for the future – they must all run through the filter of God’s will. We must step back and ask ourselves “How does God want me to handle this decision?”. Through prayer, study, and discernment we learn how we can glorify and honor God through our personal finances.

What this often boils down to is determining how we can store up treasures in Heaven rather than treasures on Earth. Instead of always focusing on how we can maximize our wealth to meet our desires and dreams, we learn to focus on how we can meet the needs of others. We learn to follow Paul’s instructions in 1 Timothy 6:17-19:

17 Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. 18 Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. 19 In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life. 1 Timothy 6:17-19 (NIV)

Be sure to check in next week when we’ll look at what the Bible says about prosperity!