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

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Have you ever felt like your tithe money isn’t being put to good use after it is put in the offering bucket each week? Or maybe you are low on funds and there is a meaningful cause that you want to contribute to but can’t afford both the tithe AND to contribute to the cause. Is it such an unthinkable act to pay your tithe elsewhere?

While you may not be willing to admit it, isn’t it possible that it could be put to better use in a meaningful cause? I hate to say it, but wouldn’t God want you to give your first 10% to the most meaningful cause sometimes?

Why I Think It’s Okay to “Tithe” Outside the Church

You may think that I am a heathen for suggesting such a blasphemous thing, but I believe it is perfectly justified to contribute your tithe towards other causes. Most people take a tradition from the Old Testament to support the rigid idea that tithing has to be performed in a set manner. It’s a particular percentage and it has to given to the church. Yet, this ideal often fails to take into account the messiness of life.

I have been in seminary for some time now. It’s no secret that graduate students do not make a lot of money and are often just scrapping by on the part-time jobs they have. It was just a few months ago that a good friend of mine was trying to raise money to go to Africa. She was not going to be able to go without some extra money. Because my funds are limited already, I knew I couldn’t afford to help her AND also pay a percentage of my income to my church. I strongly believed that she was supposed to go to Africa and so I decided to give the money that I would normally tithe to her. If you ask me, there is something in this personal story that helps challenge the normal understanding of tithing. After all, it’s not like I was hoarding it away for myself, like putting money into my retirement fund.

More importantly, I don’t think that paying your tithe is about following a strict rule. While most would not be willing to admit this, I have difficulty believing in a God that wants us to abide by such rigid standards when it is too financially difficult to do so. I especially believe this when there are other meaningful services that need financial support. When I think of why God would want us to tithe, the most important reason, to me, seems to be to remind us that our money should not be hoarded for selfish reasons, but instead put to good causes. I’m not suggesting to completely get rid of tithing altogether, but to suggest that perhaps there are times in our lives where it is okay to give your tithe elsewhere.

Creative Ways to Tithe

If you are also wondering other ways to pay your tithe, here are some that I have found are meaningful replacements:

Sponsoring a Child: There are many sponsorship programs that all have similar features. Regardless of the program, I can think of fewer ways that are easier to impact a life than paying as little as $22 per month. For this small amount, a poor child gets a more comfortable living environment and a better education that helps them out of a systemic poverty.

Funding a Mission Trip: Similar to my experience, there are many people that hope to travel to make a meaningful impact and lack funding. Contributing to something like this not only has an obvious impact (they are able to travel), but often are changed for life.

Food Pantry: Regardless of where you live, there is most likely a need for food to be given to homeless and lower-income individuals and families. Being in that position causes enough stress; having to worry about where your next meal is even worse. If you are able to contribute towards such a cause, I don’t see God holding it against you.

Do you think it’s okay to find meaningful replacements for your tithe? What creative ways have you used to tithe?

This was a guest post by Wayne at Young Family Finance. He writes to help young families overcome financial challenges like paying your bills on time.

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Every Black Friday, we hear stories about overzealous shoppers who rush the store doors when they open or get in fights with other shoppers over some item they want that is only available in limited quantities.

A few years ago a pregnant woman was trampled when people rushed the door, and during Black Friday 2011 a woman pepper sprayed other shoppers.  A reader of mine told me her children saw a person punch a lady for $1.88 towels on sale at Wal-Mart.  The woman who was punched went to get her glasses that had fallen to the floor, and then the other shoppers stole her towels.  Black Friday seems to bring out the worst in people, and it can be a poor example for our children.

Every year the Christmas season seems to fuel a frenzy of consumerism rather than a chance to celebrate the birth of Christ.  Decorations and other Christmas items are put on display before Halloween is even over, and even the Black Friday sales started earlier this year.  Vigilance is required to combat against this and to continue to demonstrate to children the real reason we celebrate.  Here are some things we do to help remind our children to keep the birth of Christ the forefront of the holiday.

Bake A Birthday Cake For Jesus.

Every Christmas Eve, we make a cake to celebrate the birth of Jesus, and we enjoy it after our Christmas dinner.  This helps our young children remember that the real reason for Christmas is to celebrate Jesus’ birth.

Shop For A Needy Child.

My son is seven, so a few years ago, when he was four, we started the tradition of choosing a tag off the Christmas tree at our local post office.  We go shopping for the child we don’t know whose parents don’t have money to buy her a gift.  My son picks out the item, and we go home and wrap it together and drop it off at the post office.  During this time, we talk about being thankful for what we have and helping others who are less fortunate than we are.

Clear Out Your Shelves.

Almost all of us have too much “stuff”—too much food in our pantry and too many clothes in our closets.  Now is a good time to cull down the extra and just keep the essentials.  Local food pantries would welcome your unexpired canned goods and dry goods; shops like Goodwill would welcome your gently used clothing.  Children often have too many toys; now would be a good time to explain how much we have to be thankful for and how nice it is too share the excess with others by donating a toy or two.

Give A Gift Of Time.

Volunteer to help a local agency such as a food bank or to deliver food baskets to the needy in your own church.  Likewise, nursing homes are usually glad to have visitors; call the nursing home ahead of time and see if you can bring a treat such as cookies or bread and spend time visiting with the residences.  Children will learn that not only is it good to give of themselves through spending time with others who may be lonely, but that family is one of the most important things to be thankful for.

Read Them Stories About Selfless Giving.

One of my favorite stories is O’Henry’s The Gift of the Magi where a couple each sacrificed to give gifts to one another.  The woman sold her long, beautiful hair to buy her husband a watch chain, and unbeknownst to her, her husband sold his watch to buy her a hair clip.  Both were willing to give up the item they most loved to give to the other.  We also enjoy reading some of the Little House on the Prairie books.  One Christmas, Laura and Mary received a tin cup to share and a piece of candy, and they were delighted by their gifts.  The focus was not on the presents they received but on spending time with family and giving thanks for all of their blessings.  Seeing the simplicity of the holidays back then helps my son see how commercialized Christmas is now.

While American businesses delight on the frenzy that is Black Friday, we don’t have to fall into the commercial trap of Christmas.  We can take steps to remind our children each Christmas what the holiday is really about—celebrating the birth of Jesus, not how many presents we can receive.

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I‘ve always wanted something different. Not the same old, same old. Something exciting!

I was a waiter but wanted to be a pastor.

I was a pizza delivery driver but wanted to be a counselor.

I was a lackluster movie suggester but wanted to be an online entrepreneur.

The things I have been doing haven’t always been the things I’ve wanted to do. But that discrepancy has taught me a lot about myself and my abilities.

The latest iteration of my pastor/counselor/online entrepreneur ambitions is becoming more fully realized in The Christian Dollar, but something always seems to hold me back . . . like money!

Don’t get me wrong. I make a good income. But not enough to jump from the dock to the boat – not enough to go full time online.

Finding Contentment Where You Are

This has led to a nagging dissatisfaction because I’m doing something I like, not something I love. Well, then again, I’m doing something I like part time and something I love part time. It’s just the perfect mix to foster a bit of restlessness.

Recently I’ve been reading through Genesis, and I found that many of God’s people worked a long time to get what they truly wanted. Take Joseph. He went through years of slavery before being recognized for his abilities. And what I’m going through is not slavery. It’s just a job that I like, not love.

It may take me another year, 5 years, or decade to get where I want to truly be in my career. So during that time I’m going to try something new: contentment.

Where To Find Contentment

It seems that the Lord allows us to go through trying times for a reason. He pushes us to be satisfied with what we have before he gives us something more. Have you noticed that?

Be content John. Be content.

A period of years is only a drop in the bucket on God’s timeline, and you can be content as well. I’ve learned a few good things about contentment that I’d love to share with you below:

• Contentment is found in the search for the good qualities in people (like your managers).
• Contentment is found in casual conversations while preforming the difficult task at hand.
• Contentment is found in the humility of knowing you’re not perfect and never will be.
• Contentment is found by the grace of God – people on their own can never be content.

At my current day job, I’ve been a counselor and a pastor. I’ve asked how people were really doing after they’ve given me the automatic “okay” answer and gotten a genuine response. My job isn’t to do these things, but I do them anyway. Why? Because I care and want people to have a different kind of experience when shopping. I want them to remember their humanity, remember that there is good in the world, and somehow change the course of their day.

My conviction is that you can find the same satisfaction in the everyday mundane. You can do things that make a real difference. You can be what you want to be wherever you are. This will lead to a great deal of contentment, more than you’ll be able to measure.

If you’re like me, seeking self employment and on the journey to find what you love to do, reach out to me. Maybe you’ve had some success you’d like to share. Or perhaps you need some guidance in the area of contentment in your life. Peter and I would be happy to respond to your comments below. We’ll meet you there!

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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.

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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.

Topics: Wealth | Contentment | Giving | Greed | Debt | Ethics | Work & Laziness | Rest | Rest | Planning | Saving | Stewardship | Guidance | God’s Provision | Worry | True Wealth

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

• 8 Important Bible Verses About Money For Christians
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• What Is God’s Plan For A Christian’s Personal Finances?

Yesterday an interesting discussion started in the comments section of a mortgage company review on this site.  A regular reader was asking the question of whether or not it was OK for a Christian to take on debt of any kind, or whether debt should avoided at all costs as being biblically a bad idea.

There was a bit of back and forth, and I think we agreed on some points, but not on others. So today I decided to open the topic up for further discussion.

Here’s how the question was framed by Matt from DiscipleshipGuy.com:

Before I get to my comment I want to say that I currently have a house that we use to live in that we have outgrown and since have turned it into a rental due to not being able to sell it. So we currently rent.

That being said, I have spent a lot of time lately thinking about our next step, would we try to buy again, and if so, would we finance. This isn’t always an easy thing to think about, many of us, if we had to do 100% down (as Dave Ramsey recommends), wouldn’t be able to buy for a long time – at least not what we want to buy. That being said, since this site is Bible Money Matters, is there anyway that we as Christians, can justify getting a mortgage? I know that culturally that we do it, but we aren’t to be a part of the world. Is there any Biblical position that allows for getting a mortgage or loan of any kind?

I am not trying to attack you or anything, I like you and your sites. But, sometimes I think about all of the Christian financial blogs out there, giving advice on living frugally, Biblically, and being good stewards, and I wonder if sometimes we miss the mark and just give good advice rather than Biblical advice. Basically my question for us to think about is this: is it Biblical to get a mortgage or to even recommend a mortgage (or loan of any kind)?

…there are several verses that lend to the idea of not borrowing. I definitely never see borrowing encouraged in the Bible. My overall point is this: As Christians, we see mortgage as an acceptable way of life, but is it a Biblical way of life? I am not saying for sure where I fall on this issue, but it is something I am debating right now. After all, if we are a slave to the lender, then we cannot serve God as he requires.

So what do you think?  Is it biblical to take on a mortgage, or to recommend a mortgage or a loan of any kind?

Is Debt Considered Sinful?

The first question that I think we should consider is whether or not going into debt can be considered a sin.  From the verses that I’ve read I don’t think that we can say that it is.   There are several verses that talk about debt and repaying debt, and in none of them that I can find anything that being in debt is a sin, or that it is sinful to be in debt.

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

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

The verses that I’ve found do talk about the fact that the wicked don’t repay, or that it is sinful to allow debts to remain outstanding without repayment.   But none of them say that it is sinful to take on debt in the first place.

Also, if borrowing was considered sinful, then lending would also be frowned upon as sinful as well wouldn’t it?  But look to the words of Jesus himself:

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

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.

I do think that some verses caution against lending in cases where doing so can cause hardship for borrowers, or where outrageous interest is being charged, but I can’t find anything saying that we should never lend or borrow.

Are We Cautioned Against Going Into Debt?

Even if it isn’t sin to go into debt, are we cautioned in the bible about the pitfalls of taking on debt?  I think we are:

The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower becomes the lender’s slave.  Proverbs 22:7

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

The bible in numerous instances cautions us about the dangers of debt.  It tells us about how being a borrower puts you in a power relationship with the lender, and you become slave to that debt and lender.  It tells us that by taking on debt, those debts can quickly become our master and it can cloud our relationship with God, and quickly overtake our relationship with Him.  We need to be wary of debt because it restricts our freedom.

Is It OK For A Christian To Have Debt?

Here’s where it gets a bit tricky – the question of whether or not it is ever OK for a Christian to take on debt. While I think not using debt is preferable if possible, in some cases I think it’s OK to take on debt.   You just need to be sure that the debt isn’t restricting your service to God in any way, and that it isn’t debt in order to facilitate sin in any way.  It has to fit into your financial plan and be reasonable and not for foolish purposes.  Paul from ProvidentPlan.com, in his own post about debt and sin, put it like this:

None of this means that debt does not have its proper place in our finances. But foolish debt – to buy things we can’t really afford – is not going to glorify God. Christians should only be going into debt when they are reasonably sure they can repay the loan and they are not using the debt for foolish or sinful purposes.

To me they key is that we shouldn’t allow ourselves to go into debt to the degree that it interferes with our service to God, and to the degree that becomes overpowering.  We should only use debt when absolutely necessary, and only when we can easily afford it.

At this point I want to open it up for discussion.  What are your thoughts about going into debt as a Christian?  Is it ever acceptable for a Christian, and if not, why not?  Tell us your thoughts in the comments.

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A few months ago I published a post about how financial guru Dave Ramsey had built a beautiful new multi-million dollar home in an upscale neighborhood in Tennessee.  When I wrote the post I intended to focus more on the fact that Dave Ramsey had built the house without any debt of any kind, and wanted to hold it up as an example of living a financially responsible life.  I thought it was pretty cool that Ramsey was practicing what he preaches, and was living a cash only lifestyle.

Soon after I wrote the post the comments section quickly took a turn, and the comments turned from a discussion of paying cash for a home, or living a cash only lifestyle, to a discussion of the ethics and morality of buying such a big home when you don’t need it, and whether you can be a witness for Christ when you have such wealth.

There were some comments that I believe made salient points about how we need to guard against allowing our wealth and possessions to become an idol in our lives, and about how we as Christians always need to be looking to Christ for guidance in our lives to make sure we’re being good stewards.

Photo  copyright coolsprings.com

There were other comments that I think were extremely judgmental, that were assuming the worst about Ramsey and essentially saying that he was making money off the misery of others and that he wasn’t a good witness for Christ.

I was thinking about closing the comments on the discussion because it was starting to devolve a bit, when Dave Ramsey himself decided to stop by and comment on the discussion to shed some light on the situation.

Dave Ramsey Comments On His House, His Debt Philosophy, Giving

It was obvious from Dave’s comment that he had read much of the discussion, and I’m sure some of it was pretty frustrating to read.  Here is what he said.

I just found this discussion from a twitter link. Wow. Thanks for all of your concern about my soul, my reputation and my witness. Please continue to pray for me because wisdom is sometimes elusive. The teacher in me has to reach out and help with proper biblical and life view points for some of you.

First, None of this is any of your business nor is it your problem, however in an effort to teach I have always been overly transparent. So I will try to help.

1) We tithe 10% of our before tax income to our local church
2) We have a family foundation that God allows us to give many times what our personal home or other items cost, so we give much more of God’s money to his kingdom that we live on percentage wise.
3) No Gary, we don’t have any debt any where of any kind. No corporate debt, no credit cards, no mortgage debt, no blind trusts, and no kind of debt no where no how. Didn’t you hear? I don’t believe in debt.
4) Before making a large purchase of any kind we ask God if that is what he wants us to do with HIS money. Like you I sometimes hear clearly and other times I am not sure. In the case of our home I was very sure.
5) Our home is a very small percentage of our net worth.
6) In the two years we have lived here we have had many many functions to fund raise for ministries, charities, and community causes. Millions of dollars have flowed through those events. We view our home, like everything in our life, as a tool to be used for the kingdom.
7) Yes, it blows my mind how much it costs to maintain a lot of things God has called me to manage. We have a 64,000 square foot office building (paid for) that we spend a lot of natural resources and money to keep operating and from where I came from it is sometimes hard to emotionally grasp the zeros. However, I man up, and step up to do what God gave me to do. It is weird some days though.
I used to say ignorant things like “what does anyone need with a ______ like that” when I was immature. Now I have been blessed to see how God uses people who are obedient when they are broke and when they aren’t. I was with a really Godly guy a few weeks ago worth 2.2 BILLION. He gives 300-500 million a year. Some of you sent him hate mail worried about his soul because he bought a $110,000 car. That does not make him wrong, that makes that person silly, foolish, and spiritually immature. Note: God gave HIM 2.2 Billion to manage, God did NOT assign you to help.

Thanks again for your concern and please continue to pray for me as I am perfectly capable of messing this whole deal up. So far though, I am not inconsistent between my message and my life. So far I have managed to keep God First, Sharon Second, my kids third, and serving all of you fourth. I am having a blast and I thank all you who do understand.

P.S. I will not be visiting back to see your comments because I already know what they are: Some get it, Some don’t.
Yours In Christ,
Dave Ramsey

Dave has said a lot in his comment, and I thought it might be good to dive into some of the things he touches on.

Good Stewardship

In his comments Dave mentions that the money is all God’s in the first place, and that they ask God for guidance on what to do with HIS resources before they do anything.   He mentions that like the rest of us he doesn’t always get a clear answer as to how to proceed, but seeking God’s will is important.

So what does good stewardship mean?  It means using what God has given us in accordance with his will, and using it wisely.  It also means working hard so that we can feed ourselves and our families, while having enough left over to help others as well.

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)

Wealth And Things As Tools Used For His Kingdom

Dave mentions that they consider their house, and their wealth in general as a tool to be used for His kingdom.  I think that’s a great way to look at how we should view the material things of this world – as merely tools given to us by God to be used to further his kingdom. When they become ends in themselves, they can become more important and we can start to lose our way.

Importance Of Prayer And Seeking God’s Will

Far too often we negate the power of prayer, and don’t even think to seek God’s will for our lives, and in our decisions.  When that happens our own sinful motives far too often crop up.  Ramsey touches on the importance of prayer, and seeking God’s will for your life and the resources he has entrusted you with.

We can make our own plans, but the LORD gives the right answer. People may be pure in their own eyes,  but the LORD examines their motives. Commit your actions to the LORD,  and your plans will succeed. Proverbs 16:1-3

God Can Use The Wealthy (And The Poor)

I was reading in my Bible study this week about several very wealthy men in the bible – and how they were men after God’s own heart.  There was King David, King Solomon, and then later on I read about some New Testament Christians who had wealth and used it to help others in need.  God can use those who are obedient to his will.

For instance, there was Joseph, the one the apostles nicknamed Barnabas (which means “Son of Encouragement”). He was from the tribe of Levi and came from the island of Cyprus. He sold a field he owned and brought the money to the apostles Acts 4:36-37

Those who have much are called to give much.

We all also remember the story of the widow who gave sacrificially out of faith as well, and how Jesus contrasted that with the showy giving of the pharisees. While God hasn’t entrusted us all with the same financial resources, we can all use our resources to give glory to him.    We should try to avoid giving in order to gain approval from the world or other men, but instead give with godly motives.

Humility And Our Need For Prayer

Despite the fact that I believe it’s OK for a Christian to be wealthy, I believe, and I believe Dave understands, the need for humility and a constant seeking out of God’s will. If we aren’t constantly seeking his will, the things of this world can quickly become an idol in our lives, and the money and wealth can become more important than our relationship with Christ.

No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”

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.  Luke 16 :13-15

As the verse says, God knows our hearts.  When we try to justify ourselves in the eyes of others, and use money and position as a justification of our worth, and not our relationship with Christ, that’s when we start to focus more on ourselves and our own self-importance, and not God. It’s something we all need to guard against.

Conclusion

Whether or not you agree with Ramsey’s decision to build such a large house, I think there are things to be learned from this situation, such as our need for Christ, the importance of prayer and God’s guidance in our lives, and our need to be justified only in Christ, and not in the eyes of others through our money and possessions.  We need to focus on Christ.

What do you think about what I’ve written here? Do you think I’ve missed the mark on what can be learned here?  Do you have a different philosophy on whether or not Christians can or should be wealthy, or if they should give it all away?  Tell us your thoughts in the comments.

• When Is Enough… Enough?
• Money Isn’t The Problem. Our Interaction With It Is.
• 7 Lies About Money That Can Kill Your Financial Future
• Wealth And Contentment: Two Peas In A Pod

When considering investing in stocks as a Christian, we have more to think about than just potential return. We also have to be sure that we are being good stewards of God’s money. First we have to be sure that we are not supporting sin, or violating our conscience in the process. Secondly, we have to guard against putting our trust in our wealth.

When writing about the question, “Should Christians invest in stocks?“, I touched on this concern. However, since it can become so easy to let this happen, I decided to write a full post about it.

We Are Commanded To Trust God For Everything

We are told over and over in scripture that God will provide for us as along as we focus on His kingdom and are living in obedience to His word. Here are just a few passages which speak to this fact:

For this reason I say to you, do not be worried about your life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink; nor for your body, as to what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? Look at the birds of the air, that they do not sow, nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they?

And who of you by being worried can add a single hour to his life? And why are you worried about clothing? Observe how the lilies of the field grow; they do not toil nor do they spin, yet I say to you that not even Solomon in all his glory clothed himself like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much more clothe you? You of little faith!

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. ~ Matthew 6:25-33

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

He who did not spare His own Son, but delivered Him over for us all, how will He not also with Him freely give us all things? ~ Romans 8:32

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. ~ 1 Peter 5:6-7

We can go on and on, but the point is that God not only commands us to look to Him for all of our provision, but he also assures us that we will never lack the basic needs of life as long as we live in faith and obedience! Even when we save and invest and look to create wealth for the years when we are unable to work, we are still to ultimately depend on God for our provision!

The Dangers Of Trusting In Our Wealth

One of the main problems with obtaining wealth is that we can easily become comfortable with and dependent on our riches, rather than God. Because this is such a common occurrence, even with those who are committed to Christ, the bible is full of warnings to this end. Here are a few:

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. ~ Psalms 49:10-12

Riches do not profit in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death. ~ Proverbs 11:4

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

When we are forced (through poverty, illness, or something else out of our immediate control) to depend on God for every step, it is much easier to keep our eyes upon Him. However, it can be difficult to look past our wealth, or even the prospect of wealth, to see God! Here is the record of a man who let his wealth keep him from Jesus and eternal life:

And someone came to Him and said, “Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may obtain eternal life?” And He said to him, “Why are you asking Me about what is good? There is only One who is good; but if you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments.” Then he said to Him, “Which ones?” And Jesus said, “YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT MURDER; YOU SHALL NOT COMMIT ADULTERY; YOU SHALL NOT STEAL; YOU SHALL NOT BEAR FALSE WITNESS; HONOR YOUR FATHER AND MOTHER; and YOU SHALL LOVE YOUR NEIGHBOR AS YOURSELF.”

The young man said to Him, “All these things I have kept; what am I still lacking?” Jesus said to him, “If you wish to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” But when the young man heard this statement, he went away grieving; for he was one who owned much property. ~ Matthew 19:16-22

This young ruler’s faith and trust became so grounded in his wealth, that he actually refused eternal life because it would mean giving up his riches. The same thing can happen to our heart over time if we fix our eyes upon our growing 401k balances! There is nothing wrong with trying to grow our wealth in a God-honoring way. However, the problem comes in when we allow the temporal security of money to replace the practice of standing on the promises of God!

How To Avoid Trusting In Wealth

The first step to this is to be content no matter what state we happen to be in:

But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content. But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs. ~ 1 Timothy 6:6-10

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. ~ Philippians 4:11-13

Since we know that it is ultimately God that provides for us and sustains us, we must be content no matter how much or little we actually have. As we saw earlier, Jesus promised that His true followers (those who are seeking the kingdom first) will not have to worry about food or covering! Now we are told above that if we have these things, we should be content!

We must remember that every possession in this life is temporal, and we cannot take it with us when we die. Therefore, we are warned in Matthew 6:19, not to “store up for [our]selves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal“.

A Final Instruction To Those Who Are Rich

In the final chapter of the letter to Timothy, we find this great passage directed toward those who are rich:

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 Timothy 6:17-19

So, even as we begin to invest and build up our net worth, we must never make the mistake of fixing our “hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy.”

Reader Questions:

1. Do you look over your bank and investment statements more than the bible?
2. Have you ever come to a point where you felt like the rich young ruler who turned down eternal life for his riches?
3. How do you stay content – whether you have much or little?

• The Dangers Of Investing For A Christian Part 1: Profiting From Sin
• Should Christians Invest In Stocks?
• What Does The Bible Have To Do With Finances?
• How To Do A 401(k) Loan: Pros And Cons Of Borrowing From A Retirement Plan

Previously, we took a look at the question, “Should Christians Invest In Stocks?“. What we found is that it is possible to be a good steward of God’s money, and still invest. However, there are still a couple of things that we as believers must be careful of when we choose to invest.

The two most prominent dangers to investing for a Christian are, supporting or profiting from sin, and trusting in our wealth instead of God.

Let’s take a look at the first danger:

The First Danger Of Investing: Profiting From Sin

This is probably the most popular reason given by Christians as to why they refuse to invest in stocks. We don’t like the thought of our money going to support Playboy or some other entity that makes money off of sin!

It’s pretty clear from scripture that there is to be a separation between Christians and the sinful practices of the world:

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. ~ 1 John 2:15-17

If we as slaves to Christ must avoid the “lust of the flesh and the lust of the eyes and the boastful pride of life”, then it stands to reason that we should not benefit from companies and organizations that promote these things. It would seem hypocritical to speak out against these things while secretly building our retirement accounts on their success!

It can become so difficult and time-consuming to figure out if a company that you are currently invested in derives any of its profit from ungodly activities. So because of the danger of profiting from sin, many Christians will choose not to invest.

There is something else that we must consider when choosing to invest:

Do not be bound together with unbelievers; for what partnership have righteousness and lawlessness, or what fellowship has light with darkness? ~ 2 Corinthians 6:14

To present a more clear understanding of this command, here is a note on this verse from my study bible:

not be bound together. Lit. “unequally yoked,” an illustration taken from Old Testament prohibitions to Israel regarding the work-related joining together of two different kinds of livestock (Dt 22:10). By this analogy, Paul taught that it is not right to join together in common spiritual enterprise with those who are not of the same nature (unbelievers). It is impossible under such an arrangement for things to be done to God’s glory. with unbelievers. Christians are not to be bound together with non-Christians in any spiritual enterprise or relationship that would be detrimental to the Christian’s testimony within the body of Christ. ~ The MacArthur Study Bible (page 1741, note on 2 Corinthians 6:14)

When you purchase stocks, you are buying a share of the ownership of that particular company. Because of this, investing is commonly looked at as a partnership between the company and its shareholders. Since we are to avoid joining together in partnerships with ungodly people and entities, we have to now be even more careful about the companies in which we choose to invest.

Can We Avoid Profiting From Sin?

On the surface, this seems like an easy question to answer – of course we can avoid it, just investigate each company to see exactly how they make their money! However, this type of investigation can quickly go pretty far. You may want to consider looking at their business partners, suppliers, and even network on which they advertise.

My point is that it can be pretty much impossible to invest in a company that has no connection to sin and worldliness. If that is the case, how can we feel comfortable investing at all? I think we follow two main principles in order to invest in a way that honors God…

Cut Off Any Clearly Ungodly Partnerships

Any company that openly makes its profit by violating God’s word can immediately be cut of your list of potential investments. Now, I’m not going to take the time to create a list of every action that violates God’s holy and perfect standard, but take a look at 1 John 2:15-17 above, and you should be able to create a list of your own!

If you know that a company involves itself in sinful practices, then you should cut off your relationship with them if possible.

Do Not Violate Your Conscience Or That Of Another Believer

Hear what the Apostle Paul says about this:

Therefore let us not judge one another anymore, but rather determine this–not to put an obstacle or a stumbling block in a brother’s way. I know and am convinced in the Lord Jesus that nothing is unclean in itself; but to him who thinks anything to be unclean, to him it is unclean. For if because of food your brother is hurt, you are no longer walking according to love Do not destroy with your food him for whom Christ died. Therefore do not let what is for you a good thing be spoken of as evil; for the kingdom of God is not eating and drinking, but righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit.

For he who in this way serves Christ is acceptable to God and approved by men. So then we pursue the things which make for peace and the building up of one another. Do not tear down the work of God for the sake of food All things indeed are clean, but they are evil for the man who eats and gives offense. It is good not to eat meat or to drink wine, or to do anything by which your brother stumbles. The faith which you have, have as your own conviction before God. Happy is he who does not condemn himself in what he approves. But he who doubts is condemned if he eats, because his eating is not from faith; and whatever is not from faith is sin. ~ Romans 14:13-23

In many of the pagan temples, worshipers sacrificed meat to their idols. This was to both cleanse the meat from demonic contamination (because they believed that evil spirits would indwell food in order to enter into a human’s body when they ate), and to offer up a sacrifice to their false god. Any meat that wasn’t burned on the altar was then sold in the meat markets at a cheap discount.

Many new Christians had been saved out of that pagan lifestyle and thus were very sensitive to these practices, and were sometimes reminded of their past. However, more mature believers knew that there was nothing inherently wrong with the meat and that it was fine for a Christian to buy it and save a lot of money! 1 Corinthians 8:7-13 has this to say about this situation:

However not all men have this knowledge; but some, being accustomed to the idol until now, eat food as if it were sacrificed to an idol; and their conscience being weak is defiled. But food will not commend us to God; we are neither the worse if we do not eat, nor the better if we do eat. But take care that this liberty of yours does not somehow become a stumbling block to the weak. For if someone sees you, who have knowledge, dining in an idol’s temple, will not his conscience, if he is weak, be strengthened to eat things sacrificed to idols?

For through your knowledge he who is weak is ruined, the brother for whose sake Christ died. And so, by sinning against the brethren and wounding their conscience when it is weak, you sin against Christ. Therefore, if food causes my brother to stumble, I will never eat meat again, so that I will not cause my brother to stumble.

As we see in this example, even if we understand that the word of God doesn’t explicitly speak against a particular practice, if it offends another believer, then we are not to do it. Helping to protect the conscience of our brother or sister is more important than whatever gain we would have received by a particular investment (0r meal).

Even if you believe that it is acceptable to invest in a particular stock or fund, if your doing so causes another believer to stumble or even go against his conscience, then you have sinned against both him and Christ!

A Few Things To Consider

• Unless you purchase your shares of stock in an I.P.O. (Initial Public Offering), your money does not go to the company
• If you are not comfortable investing in a company that owns a company that owns a company that owns a company that sells vending machines to casinos, then please do not go against your conscience
• If you scrutinize your investments this heavily, but do not give the same consideration to where you make your day-to-day purchases, some may regard you as a hypocrite and your testimony will still be ruined

Reader Questions

1. Have you ever invested in a stock against your conscience for any reason (fear of missing out on a huge profit, the pressure of an adviser or other Christian, etc)?
2. How careful are you when it comes to choosing your investments?
3. Do you think it’s possible to avoid profiting from sin?

• The Dangers Of Investing For A Christian Part 2: Trusting In Wealth Instead Of God
• Should Christians Invest In Stocks?
• What Does The Bible Have To Do With Finances?
• How To Do A 401(k) Loan: Pros And Cons Of Borrowing From A Retirement Plan