Some folks wonder what the Bible says about money and riches. Well, here’s the short take: The Bible talks about wealth quite a bit, and it’s not all black and white. If you’re curious about God’s view on wealth and how it relates to our lives, keep reading.
What Does the Bible Say About Wealth?
The Bible has a lot to say about wealth. You see, it’s not just about being rich or poor. It’s about how we handle our riches and where our hearts are. In the Old Testament, you’ll find stories of kings with overflowing treasures, but also warnings against the love of money. It’s not about the money itself; it’s about our attitude towards it.
In the New Testament, Jesus spoke extensively on wealth. He told a rich young ruler to sell his possessions and give to the poor, highlighting the importance of prioritizing God over wealth. Jesus didn’t say it’s a sin to be wealthy, but he did emphasize the dangers of loving money more than God.
God does bless people with wealth, but He also calls them to be good stewards of it. In the Bible, you’ll find verses about helping the less fortunate and giving generously. It’s not about amassing wealth for yourself but using it to make the world a better place.
The Bible also teaches contentment. It’s not about constantly striving for more and more. In the book of Philippians, Paul says he’s learned to be content in any situation, whether he has much or little. That’s a valuable lesson for all of us.
Bible Verses About Wealth
- Matthew 6:24: “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.” – Jesus is clear: it’s a matter of priorities.
- Proverbs 22:7: “The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender.” – Debt can enslave us, so be wise with your finances.
- 1 Timothy 6:10: “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.” – Money itself isn’t evil, but the love of it can lead to trouble.
- Proverbs 11:28: “Those who trust in their riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf.” – Trust in God, not your bank account.
- Matthew 19:21: “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.'” – A challenging call to prioritize eternal treasures.
- Proverbs 13:11: “Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.” – Honesty in finances is a godly principle.
- Ecclesiastes 5:10: “Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless.” – The pursuit of wealth can be a never-ending cycle.
- 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.” – A reminder to place our trust in God, not riches.
- Hebrews 13:5: “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.'” – Contentment comes from knowing God’s presence is enough.
- Luke 12:15: “Then he said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.'” – Life’s true value isn’t measured by possessions.
Remember, the Bible doesn’t say being wealthy is a sin, but it does caution against making wealth your top priority. It’s about your heart and how you use your resources to honor God and help others.