The Bible speaks frequently of wealth, and God’s intention for our prosperity, both financial and spiritual. Christians are often challenged to align their attitude towards riches with biblical principles. So what does the Bible say about prosperity?
According to theologians, the Bible has a wise and balanced view of wealth. On the one hand, it recognizes that wealth can open up opportunities; on the other hand, it urges us not to overvalue possessions. Ecclesiastes 5:10-11 reads, “Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless.”
The Bible emphasizes contentment in the face of material wealth. In Luke 12:15, Jesus says, “Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.” In this same chapter, Jesus is clear that our primary focus should be on God and not material possessions.
Prosperity is a benefit of faith in God, but it does not always translate into earthly wealth. In Isaiah 48:17, for example, the LORD says, “I am the LORD your God, who teaches you what is best for you, who directs you in the way you should go.” We can’t control the outcomes of our lives, but we can trust that God is at work and will make things turn out for our best — regardless of our financial circumstances.
The Bible does not reveal a gospel of wealth or prosperity. Rather, it is about our dependence on God for provision and about honoring Him with whatever wealth we might possess. Deuteronomy 8:18 reads, “And you shall remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth.” The Bible instructs us to use our wealth to benefit others in need and to honor God.
Financial well-being is a blessing, but it should not be sought after as an end goal. Our primary pursuit should be a godly lifestyle. Not by seeking riches, but by living according to God’s will, will we experience true security and joy.
Saving and Investing
Saving and investing are one part of living a prosperous life. The Bible teaches us to be wise stewards of the money we have. Proverbs 21:20 says, “In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but a foolish man devours all he has.” In other words, wise people don’t simply spend all their money; they invest it for the future.
A common biblical directive is to save for a rainy day. In Matthew 25:14-30, Jesus taught that we should “put our money to work” and not bury it. It is essential to understand the principles of saving and investing — and to make use of trusted advisors — while still faithfully standing on God’s promises.
Giving Generously
God entrusts us with money and resources so that we can give generously. The tithe — giving 10% of our income to God — is a recurring theme throughout the Bible. Deuteronomy 26:12 implores us to “honor the LORD with your substance and with the first fruits of all your produce.”
The Bible also encourages us to use our resources to help the needy. Proverbs 14:31, for example, says, “Whoever oppresses the poor shows contempt for their Maker, but whoever is kind to the needy honors God.” Our money and possessions can be used to create meaningful change in the world and to bring glory to God.
Biblical View of Work
The Bible emphasizes the importance of hard work. Proverbs 13:11 says, “Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.” We should take initiative to reach our goals and never give up.
A successful career is not to be pursued as an end in itself, but as a way to provide for ourselves and others. Ephesians 4:28 urges us to “work diligently with [our] hands, so that [we] may walk in a manner worthy of the Lord and bring good things to all.” Work should be undertaken with a purpose, striving to please and honor the Lord with our efforts.
Contentment in Any Circumstance
The Bible teaches that we should be content in whatever life circumstances we find ourselves in. Paul, in Philippians 4:11-13, writes, “I have learned in whatever state I am, to be content. I know how to be brought low, and I know how to abound. In any and every circumstance, I have learned the secret of facing plenty and hunger, abundance and need. I can do all things through him who strengthens me.”
We can trust God to meet our needs and be thankful for the blessings of life, whether we have much or little. We can enjoy the good and lean into the joy of the Lord in any situation.
Benefits of Moderation
Moderation is an important aspect of the biblical view of prosperity. In 1 Timothy 6:17-19, Paul says, “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. They are 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.”
The Bible encourages us to maintain a moderate lifestyle and to use our possessions to benefit others. When we live modestly and give generously, we can enjoy the abundance God has promised and we can experience true peace and joy.
