The Bible offers an abundance of wisdom and teachings on money, exploring both its potential for good and potential for harm. The scriptures encourage us to handle wealth with care, and to make sure our actions align with God’s will. It also warns us against relying on wealth instead of faith in the Lord.
The Bible speaks on money in both the New and Old Testament. In the Old Testament, money is used to purchase land and offerings to God; it’s used by the Jewish people to pay their tributes and taxes and in their business dealings. The New Testament speaks on money in terms of guidance and wisdom, in terms of charity, and wealth and poverty.
The Bible speaks most often of money as a tool for good. In 1 Timothy 6:17-19, Paul wrote to his protege Timothy: “As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.”
The Bible offers sound advice on the practicalities and responsibilities of handling money. Proverbs 13:11 tells us: “Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.” In terms of debt, Proverbs 22:7 states: “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.” The Bible also encourages us to be wise when it comes to our wealth and lavish spending: “Sovereign Lord, blessed is the one who trusts in you” (Psalm 84:12).
The main common thread that runs through the Bible’s teachings on money is the importance of perspective. Rather than idolizing money, the Bible encourages us to keep a balanced view of wealth and focus on spiritual values and ethical obligations. If we make decisions carefully, considering both the moral and practical implications, we can use wealth for good and gain a true reward that transcends physical currency. As Jesus said in Luke 16:11: “So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?”
Charity and giving
The Bible stresses the central importance of giving and caring for the poor, both personally and as a society. Starting in the Book of Exodus and continued throughout the scriptures, there are repeated reminders of caring for the socially disadvantaged. As Jesus said: “It is more blessed to give than to receive” (Acts 20:35). This is echoed in 2 Corinthians 9:7: “Every man according as he purposeth in his heart, so let him give; not grudgingly, or of necessity: for God loveth a cheerful giver.”
The Bible often speaks of charity in broad terms, rather than asking for a specific instruction for how much to give. In Acts 4:34-35, it says: “There were no needy persons among them. For from time to time those who owned lands or houses sold them, brought the money from the sales and put it at the apostles’ feet, and it was distributed to anyone as he had need.” This is an example of sacrifice and care that speaks louder than mere monetary giving.
Thus, the overall message of the Bible is to use our wealth wisely and recognizing its potential for both good and bad. We should strive to be those who give, not take, and invest our time, energy and money into upholding the highest moral standards.
Respect for others
The Bible teaches respect for all people regardless of economic class. When Jesus taught a parable about a rich man and a poor man in Luke 16:20–21, He said: “In his humiliation justice was denied him. Who will declare his generation? For his life is taken away from the earth.” These words emphasize the humble state that poverty brings and express the importance of respecting everyone.
In Proverbs 14:31, the Bible warns us against “He who oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.” Everyone should be able to prosper, and the Bible emphasizes our shared responsibility to ensure justice and fairness—not just financial success—for the vulnerable in society.
The Bible offers numerous examples of people who not only shared their wealth, but shared their time, energy and knowledge to help those in need. We should look to them for inspiration as we strive to be generous and just with our resources.
Attitude to Money
While the Bible has a realistic view of money and the importance of wealth, it also makes clear the faults of greed and the dangers of idolizing wealth. Proverbs 28:22 cautions us: “A stingy man hastens after wealth, and does not know that poverty will come upon him.”
The Bible also warns against developing an unhealthy fixation on money: “Silver or gold I do not have, but what I do have I give you.” (Acts 3:6). Not only is money an insufficient substitute for true spiritual fulfilment, it can also be a hindrance to faith. After all, Jesus said, “You cannot serve both God and money” (Matthew 6:24).
The Bible encourages us to build our lives not on earthly treasures or wealth, but on relationships and love. “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..” (Matthew 6:24).
Economics and Stewardship
The Bible also speaks of sound economic principles and the importance of wise stewardship of the resources we have. In Ecclesiastes 3:13, the Bible encourages us to “Enjoy the fruit of your labor, for this is a gift from God.” This verse emphasizes the importance of taking responsibility for our own prosperity and using our talents, experiences, and resources to make wise decisions.
The Bible speaks of our duty to be stewards of the resources we have been given, and to use our wealth in wise and responsible ways. 1 Corinthians 4:2 says, “Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful.” This reminds us that we are accountable to God for all great and small activities, and that ultimately, He will judge us on how we have utilized our wealth and resources.
Although the Bible speaks less about economics and investment than it does about charity, its messages about money reveal God’s moral standards on how we should handle our wealth. As we learn to be better stewards of all that we are given and become more generous, God will reward us with His grace and abundant blessings.
Giving in faith
The Bible speaks of the importance of giving not just money, but also prayers and thanksgiving to God. In 2 Corinthians 9:10–11, Paul wrote, “If you give, you will be given a full amount—pressed down, shaken together, and running over. For the measure you use will be the measure you receive.” This verse is an assurance that if you give in faith, God will bless you in abundance.
In addition to acting as a measure of generosity, giving also reminds us to put our trust in God rather than in wealth. The Bible tells us in Proverbs 11:24–25: “One person gives freely, yet gains more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” The meaning here is clear: rather than accumulating wealth, we are called to use our resources to bless and help others.
The Bible shows us that money is only one of the many gifts that God has bestowed upon us, but it’s one that may be particularly revealing about our heart and intentions. As we foster a sensitive outlook towards money and avoid spending unwisely on vain and frivolous objects, we can restore its meaning as a tool to serve God and our fellow man. As Jesus said in Luke 12:33–34: “Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
