The Bible is full of wisdom and guidance on how to effectively manage and save money. Whether it’s through self-control, financial planning, or simply trusting in God’s promise to provide, the Bible has many passages that can help us in our financial journey.
The Bible talks about managing finances countless times, and God’s Word often encourages us to be wise stewards of our money. One of the most common biblical verses shared is Proverbs 22:7, which says “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender.” This means that if you are borrowing money, you are likely to become a slave to the person you are borrowing from. This is a great reminder to save money and not to rely heavily on debt.
The Bible also talks about the importance of self-control when it comes to saving money. Proverbs 25:27 warns us against the temptation of impulsivity: “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act.” It’s important to be able to differentiate between wants and needs, and to also be aware of when we have the financial power to do something without having to borrow money.
Financial planning is also encouraged in the Bible. In Proverbs 6:6-7 we are instructed to “Save for the future and make plans for the distant future”. Having a clear plan for where our money should be going, and setting aside money for future expenses is important in making sure money is not wasted.
The Bible also talks about trusting in God as our ultimate provider. Proverbs 19:21 says “Many are the plans in a person’s heart, but it is the Lord’s purpose that prevails”. This is an important reminder that ultimately, it is not our own strength and wisdom that will save us but spiritual insight and faith in the Lord’s plan.
Investing
When it comes to investing and growing our wealth, the biblical approach is often met with mixed reactions. On the one hand, Proverbs 21:20 advocates for investing wisely, saying “In the house of the wise are stores of choice food and oil, but a foolish man devours all he has”. This encourages us to invest wisely and not to put it all in one basket.
On the other hand, there are verses that warn us not to trust too much in our wealth and material possessions. Proverbs 11:28 says “Whoever trusts in his riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf.” We should never rely too much on our investments and contemplate other areas of spending.
That being said, investing can be a great way to increase financial security and save money in the long run. Matthew 25:27 instructs us to “Put money to work, buying good things not to be enjoyed by others.” This encourages us to use our finances to purchase investments that provide long term financial security.
Giving
The Bible also speaks about the importance of giving. Matthew 6:3 says “wherever your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” The idea here is that the things we spend our money on should be reflective of what we value, and be directed towards those in need.
Giving is a great way to save and build up our financial security. Proverbs 11:24 tells us “One person gives freely, yet gains even more”. Giving not only helps those in need, but it also encourages us to be more mindful of our spending and to prioritize our financial needs.
Another important passage is 2 Corinthians 8:7 which tells us “For if the willingness is there, the gift is acceptable according to what one has, not according to what he doesn’t have”. This encourages us to give according to our capacity, regardless of our financial standing.
Debt
The Bible has a lot to say about debt. There are verses that warn us against taking on debt in the first place, such as Proverbs 22:26-27 which reads “Do not be a man who strikes hands in pledge or puts up security for debts; if you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be snatched from under you.” This warns us to not take on loans that we can’t repay.
When it comes to debt repayment, the Bible encourages us to be honest and to meet our financial obligations. Proverbs 3:27-28 reads “Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act. Do not say to your neighbor, ‘Come back later; I’ll give it tomorrow’— when you now have it with you.” We should honor our debt repayment agreements and try to pay off our debts as soon as possible.
In addition, the Bible encourages us to be generous with those in need. In James 2:15-16 it says “Suppose a brother or a sister is without clothes and daily food. If one of you says to them, ‘Go in peace; keep warm and well fed,’ but does nothing about their physical needs, what good is it?” We should be careful not to put too much of our financial resources towards debt repayment and forget about those also in need.
Budgeting
Budgeting is a crucial part of good financial management. The Bible speaks about the importance of budgeting multiple times, such as in Proverbs 22:3 which says “The wise man sees danger and takes refuge, but the simple keep going and suffer for it”. This encourages us to be mindful of where our money is going, and to think twice before making impulse purchases.
It is also important to be prepared for the unexpected, and to plan ahead. Proverbs 27:12 states “A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences”. This is an important reminder to make sure that we have the financial resources available not only for our daily needs, but also for unexpected expenses.
Finally, budgeting requires discipline, and it’s important to stay on track. Proverbs 24:30-34 says “ I went past the field of the sluggard, past the vineyard of the man who lacks judgment; thorns had come up everywhere, the ground was covered with weeds, and the stone wall was in ruins. I applied my heart to what I observed and learned a lesson from what I saw: A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest— and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man.” This is a good reminder to stay away from idleness, and to stay focused and disciplined with our spending.
Trusting in God
The Bible encourages us to put our trust in God and to have faith in His plan. In Matthew 6:33 it reads “Yet seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” This is a reminder that we can put our trust in God, knowing that He will provide for us.
As humans, we are prone to worry and can often struggle to find comfort during difficult financial times. But the Bible reassures us in times of financial uncertainty. In Psalm 28:7 it reads “The Lord is my strength and my shield; my heart trusts in him, and he helps me. My heart leaps for joy, and with my song I praise him.” This reminds us that even in the darkest financial moments, we have the hope and assurance that comes with knowing that God is in control.
We can also turn to the Bible for help and advice on how to overcome any financial struggles we may face. In 1 Timothy 3:2-5 it reads “If we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people 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.” This scripture encourages us to turn away from greed and materialism and to instead seek comfort in the peace that comes from knowing that God will provide.
