What Does the Bible Say About Money?
Money can be a tricky subject, especially for Christians. Many of us grapple with internal conflicts about wealth, influenced by cultural messages and even some interpretations of scripture. Is it wrong to desire financial success? Should we feel guilty for wanting to create wealth?
Let's just start with a concept that Solomon shared so we have a basic principle against the rubbish doctrine that 'money is the root of all evil'.
'...but money answers all things' (Ecclesiastes 10:19)
The truth is, God doesn’t have a problem with money—but He does care about how we use it and the importance it has in our heart and mind.
'For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.' (1 Timothy 6:10)
The Ethical Value of Making Money
In the book Thou Shall Prosper: Ten Commandments for Making Money by Rabbi Daniel Lapin, the author highlights the ethical and moral value of generating wealth. He explains that business success often comes from serving others—providing skills, products, or services that improve lives.
However, society often views wealth with suspicion. Media, government, and even schools can promote the idea that successful businesses are inherently greedy or dishonest. This negativity can seep into our thinking, creating an internal conflict that holds us back from embracing God’s blessings.
As Christians, we must recognise that money itself isn’t the problem—it’s how we view and use it.
God Doesn’t Have a Problem with You Having Money
Throughout scripture, we see examples of God blessing His people with wealth:
- Abraham became rich in livestock, silver, and gold (Genesis 13:2).
- David amassed wealth to prepare for the building of the temple (1 Chronicles 29).
- The Proverbs 31 woman is celebrated for her entrepreneurial spirit, creating wealth for her family and community.
- Women are mentioned SO many times in the New Testament as the movers and shakers of supporting and funding the movement of the gospel. That implies they either had resources to give, faith to access resources or a really motivational way of rallying support.
As Romans 16:2 says about Phebe in Cenchrea:
"That you receive her in the Lord, as becomes saints, and that you assist her in whatsoever business she has need of you; for she has been a succourer of many, and of myself also."
These examples remind us that wealth, when stewarded wisely, is a tool for blessing others and fulfilling God’s purposes.
The laws of sowing and reaping, of the day and night, and all the other commands God created apply to all. Matthew 5:45 says:
"He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the righteous and the unrighteous."
This principle shows us that blessings like wealth are part of God’s design—but they require us to act.
Sowing, Reaping, and God’s Blessing
God has designed a spiritual principle for provision: sowing and reaping.
"As the rain and the snow come down from heaven... so is my word that goes out from my mouth: It will not return to me empty but will accomplish what I desire and achieve the purpose for which I sent it" (Isaiah 55:10-11).
If you’re not sowing seed—whether that’s your time, resources, or talents—you can’t expect a harvest. And if you don’t set aside part of your harvest for more seed, there won’t be a second harvest.
This principle isn’t just about financial giving. It’s about living with intention and trust, knowing that God provides for those who act in faith.
Wealth with a Purpose: Serving God’s Kingdom
As Christian business owners, we have a unique opportunity. Our businesses allow us to serve others with excellence while creating wealth to impact the world for God’s glory.
Jesus said:
"And this Gospel of the Kingdom shall be preached in the whole world as a testimony to all nations, and then the end will come" (Matthew 24:14).
This means our work isn’t just about personal success—it’s about contributing to something bigger. Maybe you’re not the one standing on a platform preaching the Gospel, but your business can fund that platform, pay for the sound system, or support those spreading God’s Word.
For me personally, Council For Global Evangelisation has been a major place of sowing and reaping. This work is known for going into the nations, preaching in the public square, in the demonstration of the Gospel of the Kingdom. Out where the lost hear the sound of salvation. That is where God's heart is. These biblical principles have worked in my life in numerous ways, I could write a book about it.
Generosity and Faith in Financial Matters
Generosity is a hallmark of God’s character, and as His children, we are called to embody that. When we give freely and in faith, we open the door for God’s blessings to flow through us.
But this generosity comes with a mindset shift. It’s not about demanding a return on investment or giving with strings attached. It’s about trusting that God will multiply what we give, just as He multiplies the harvest from the seed we sow.
"Do not be afraid, Abram. I am your shield, your very great reward" (Genesis 15:1).
Avoid the Trap of Being Attached to Money
The Bible warns us about the dangers of being attached to wealth. While money is a powerful tool, it should never become our focus. Instead, we should see it as a conduit for God’s blessings to flow through us.
Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:21:
"For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
When we prioritise the Kingdom of God, everything else falls into place.
A Challenge to Dream Bigger
Maybe your business started with a small vision—covering bills, creating stability, or living comfortably. That’s a good start, but God often calls us to think bigger.
What if your business became a tool for transforming lives and advancing God’s Kingdom?
For me, one of my dreams is to fund a full Gospel crusade. Whether it’s giving $10,000, $1 million, or even $10 million, the opportunity to contribute to something eternal is worth it. And just as God cares for the lilies of the field, He will care for me.
Are you dreaming big enough with God?
Practical Steps for Christian Business Owners
- Embrace Wealth with Purpose: View your business as a tool for serving others and advancing God’s Kingdom.
- Sow Generously: Set aside part of your earnings for Kingdom work, trusting God to multiply it.
- Shift Your Perspective: Move from focusing on personal success to seeing your business as part of God’s grand plan.
- Support Kingdom Initiatives: Partner with churches, missionaries, or organisations to spread the Gospel.
- Dream Boldly: Ask God to expand your vision and trust Him to provide the resources you need.
- Who Do You Owe A Debt?: There are people God has anointed over you in life and in your calling. These people sow into you spiritually. Paul asks the question in 1 Corinthians 9:11,
'If we have sown unto you spiritual things, is it a great thing if we shall reap your carnal things?'
Are You Ready to Take the Next Step?
God doesn’t just want you to succeed—He wants you to thrive in ways that impact eternity. Your business is more than a way to make money; it’s a way to partner with Him in transforming lives.
Let’s stop playing small with our faith and our resources. Together, let’s embrace the calling to be Kingdom-minded business owners, using what we’ve been given to make an eternal impact.
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