Biblical Principles on Money and Stewardship

https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/26731-what-does-the-bible-say-about-money/day/7

This seven-day study explores biblical teachings on financial stewardship with balanced, practical insights:

Giving and Saving

The Bible upholds both generous giving (exemplified by the widow who gave her last coins) and prudent saving (demonstrated by Joseph storing grain for seven years). While the widow's sacrificial giving shows that heart attitude matters more than amount, Joseph's foresight illustrates the wisdom of preparation. Righteousness comes from God's grace, not our financial choices.

Borrowing

Scripture neither prohibits nor encourages borrowing. The Bible presents borrowing as a negative consequence of financial disobedience rather than a positive strategy. At minimum, borrowers must repay debts (Psalm 37:21), regardless of circumstances. The text warns against surety (cosigning) and recommends only fully collateralized loans where the security equals the debt.

Tithing

Tithing (giving a tenth) acknowledges God's ownership, as demonstrated by Abraham before Mosaic law. While the traditional amount is 10%, 2 Corinthians 9:7 emphasizes cheerful giving over compulsory percentages. Giving should flow from gratitude with an eternal perspective, being a matter between the individual and God. Financial generosity should accompany other forms of service, not replace them.

Investing

Christians should invest to multiply resources for God's kingdom, personal needs, and family care. The parable of the talents (Matthew 25) shows God commends multiplication of resources. Valid investment motives include furthering God's work, caring for family, and gaining freedom for ministry. Christians must avoid the wrong heart attitudes of greed, pride, ignorance, and envy when investing.

Prosperity and Poverty

The study rejects both extremes of the "Prosperity Gospel" (wealth indicates divine favor) and the "Poverty Gospel" (poverty equals righteousness). Scripture neither condemns wealth nor glorifies poverty but focuses on heart attitudes toward possessions. Material desires for "more, bigger, better, faster, newer" reflect discontent with God's provision. Serving others effectively combats selfishness and greed.

Wealth and Stewardship

The Bible includes examples of godly wealthy individuals (Abraham, Solomon) alongside warnings about wealth's spiritual dangers. Sin enters when money becomes our ultimate goal (1 Timothy 6:9-10). The rich must guard against arrogance and misuse of resources, while all believers share the responsibility to maintain proper priorities and practice faithful stewardship.

Retirement

The modern concept of retirement as complete cessation of work lacks biblical support. Work was designed before the Fall as inherently good. The study suggests "repurpose-ment" rather than retirement—transitioning to Kingdom service without the need for income. Christians should save prudently for financial independence without hoarding, while continuing to contribute through work, volunteering, mentoring, or "encore careers" that benefit others.

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