Biblical principles of money management

Money matters—a lot. Some say Jesus talked about it more than anything else in the Gospels.

(UP FOR DEBATE: Other sources say Jesus spoke most about "hell" or even the "kingdom of heaven").

Even before Jesus, the Bible was packed with wisdom on managing money (estimated to be over 2,000 references) about:

1. stewardship,

2. saving,

3. investing,

4. avoiding debt,

5. building communities,

6. paying taxes, and

7. giving to the poor.?

Bible verses about money

Money is at all times described as:

1. Produced by hard work - Proverbs 10:4 – "Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth."

2. To be dealt with responsibly - 1 Timothy 6:17-18 – "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."

3. A test of faith and integrity - 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."

4. To be managed without bad debt - Proverbs 22:7 – "The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender."

5. Resources to be generous with - 2 Corinthians 9:7 – "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."

How to manage your finances

Financial management should be viewed through the lens of stewardship rather than just earning and spending. A stewardship mindset shifts the focus from survival to long-term wealth building and responsibility.

If you earn and just spend. You lose.

Save money prudently

“Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.” Proverbs 13:11

Managing finances requires consistency, saving, and investing for the future. Proverbs 13:11 emphasizes the importance of gradual wealth accumulation, discouraging reliance on get-rich-quick scheme, and encouraging discipline instead.

Invest finances using biblical wisdom

“Ship your grain across the sea; after many days you may receive a return. Invest in seven ventures, yes, in eight; you do not know what disaster may come upon the land….

Sow your seed in the morning, and at evening let your hands not be idle, for you do not know which will succeed, whether this or that, or whether both will do equally well.” Ecclesiastes 11:1-2,6

The Bible teaches that you should:

1. Expand beyond familiar markets – Limiting sales or services to a small circle restricts income potential.

2. Diversify income streams – Investing in multiple ventures safeguards against financial loss.

3. Work across time zones – Flexibility and persistence are essential for success.

4. Be patient with investments – Risks are involved, and returns take time.

Paying taxes is essential

While taxation was unpopular in Jesus’ time, He affirmed its necessity (Matthew 22:17-21). Paul further instructed believers to pay taxes and show respect to authorities (Romans 13:6-7), as taxes contribute to societal stability.

Giving to the poor

Jesus stated: “The poor you will always have with you.” (Matthew 26:11). Therefore, urging proactive financial assistance. Beyond wealth accumulation, effective money management involves tithing, ministry, and charitable giving.

Tithes and offerings are not only applicable in the Old Testament (Malachi 3:10), but were a solid method of community support after the days of Pentecost (Acts 2:44-45).

Good money management is not just about accumulating wealth but about wise stewardship, ethical investing, responsible taxation, and generosity. By applying biblical principles, individuals can build stable finances while making a meaningful impact on others.

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Looking to gain vital coaching about money management?

Join us for the next Talent Multiplier Mindset webinar.?

Learn how to:

1. Earn more money,

2. Keep your money,

3. Generate multiple income streams

4. Grow money over time.

Check it out here and register: The Sower’s Path

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Find out more details about this topic of proper financial management in a study series entitled;

How The Bible Teaches To Be Wise With Money

Disclaimer

While I endeavour to teach some principles about financial management by using wisdom from the bible, note that I am not a licensed financial advisor. Please remember to follow good principles of checking with your notary public, attorney-at-law, registered accountants, and auditors to ensure proper fiscal policies. This article and sessions on "How The Bible Teaches To Be Wise With Money" are for educational purposes and should be applied with subsequent prudence and appropriate mentorship.

About Me

Joneil J. Alcock is a digital marketer and author studying to be a lay pastor. He is also the producer of The Overcomers Series. Contact him for goal planning and strategic coaching sessions.