Finance: Having a Godly Perspective

Money is a measurable commodity that often receives undue emphasis in society, being viewed as a hallmark of success through abundance and material possessions.

Biblical Perspective on Wealth and Money

Jesus refuted the concept that abundance of possessions defines success, stating, “A person's life does not consist in the abundance of their possessions” (Lk 12:15). This teaching reminds us that true worth cannot be measured by financial status or material accumulation.

The Bible counsels us not to store up riches for personal use; rather, investing in eternity is a wise option as it is impossible to serve God and money (Mt 6:19-24; 1 Tim 6:17-19). The parable of the rich fool highlights the folly of living only for self (Lk 12:16-21).

Although we can't buy our way into heaven, we are also to help meet the needs of God's people and extend His Kingdom besides fulfilling our civil responsibilities (Mt 15:4-6, 22:21; Rom 13:7; 2 Cor 9:12; 1 Tim 5:8).

As we give to meet the needs of others God gives to us, in this life (Prov 11:34-35, 19:17, 22:9, 28:27; Mt 6:33, 19:21; Lk 6:38; Phil 4:17-19). He won't forget our good deeds that we have done for Him (1 Sam 2:30; Mk 10:29-30; Heb 6:10).

Jesus told the parable of the rich fool (Lk 12:16-21) to illustrate the folly of storing up wealth for oneself without being rich toward God. The rich man built larger barns to store his abundant harvest, planning to take life easy, but God said to him, "You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?"

The dangers of loving money

“Quick wealth is not a blessing in the end…Do not wear yourself out to get rich…for riches fly away like an eagle” (Prov 20:21, Prov 23:4-5). Satan wants to make money a stumbling block, while God expects us to use it wisely for our needs and those for whom we are responsible.

Principles of Financial Stewardship

What we do with our money is indicative of our values. God declared, “You earn wages, but put it into a purse with holes in it” (Hag 1:5-11). The money was not going far enough because they were ignoring God's priorities of giving back to Him.

Greed is frequently a cause of financial problems

If we find true wealth in God we can be content, looking beyond the present situation to eternity (Ps 103:2; Hab 3:17-18; Heb 11:8-10). The Bible says, “Everything comes from you…even the ability to get wealth” (Deut 8:18; 1 Chr 29:14).

Discipleship extends to every area of life including our finances, and while we need money, it is not to be an all-consuming factor in the life of a believer. We can take practical steps to manage our finances well.

Try to be free of debt especially in areas that depreciate (cars and most consumer goods, which if sold would yield less than their purchase price). Houses and land normally increase in value yet the interest on the mortgage is often a huge burden, and the Bible says, “The rich rule over the poor, the borrower is servant to the lender” (Prov 22:7). The New Testament says, “Don't be a slave to man” (1 Cor 7:23).

Ask where can I reduce my outgoings rather than just pushing for an increase in my income? Can I correctly handle credit cards? Be disciplined in your purchases, and resist advertising pressure. Is it essential, do I need it or is it something I want?

Develop wise spending practices

Finance is one of the three main temptation areas that Satan uses to ensnare people (often referred to as money, pride, sex or 'gold, glory, gals'). Maintaining biblical principles in our financial decisions helps us resist these temptations and honor God with our resources.

Future Economic Developments:

The World Economic Forum (WEF) as part of the New World Order is soon to introduce the Central Bank Digital Currency (CBDC) which will have a profound effect on the world's financial system and pave the way for a one world currency.

This development represents a significant shift toward centralized financial control and digital economic systems that could impact personal financial freedom and privacy on a global scale.

Ultimately this will require an identifying mark (mark of the beast) implanted in each person to enable transactions to take place. This aligns with biblical prophecies concerning end times and the system of control that will emerge.

Understanding these developments through a biblical lens helps believers prepare spiritually and make informed decisions about financial participation in emerging economic systems.

As economic systems evolve, the principles of biblical stewardship remain constant. Believers are called to be wise stewards of resources while maintaining eternal perspective and trust in God's provision regardless of economic circumstances.

Staying grounded in Scripture and discerning about financial trends enables believers to navigate changing economic landscapes without compromising their faith or values.

Reflection and Application:

Evaluate your own attitudes toward money and wealth—does your financial priorities align with biblical teaching or cultural expectations?
Assess your current debt situation and create a plan to reduce financial obligations, particularly for depreciating assets.
Review your spending habits and identify areas where you can reduce outgoings and increase generosity toward God's work.
Consider how you can maintain biblical financial principles while being aware of and preparing for emerging economic systems like CBDC.