How to Handle Money Biblically

Money touches nearly every area of life, and how we handle it says a lot about our hearts. The Bible has abundant, practical wisdom about money. Here's a guide to handling it in a way that honours God.

Put God first

The foundational principle is priority: 'Seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.' When God is genuinely first, money falls into its proper place — a tool to steward rather than a master to serve. Keeping God first is the key to a healthy relationship with money.

Guard against the love of money

The Bible doesn't say money is evil, but that 'the love of money is the root of all evil.' The danger is in the heart — when money moves from servant to master. Regularly examining our attitudes guards against greed and keeps money in its rightful place.

Live within your means

Wisdom means spending less than we earn, avoiding the trap of debt where we can, and living contentedly rather than always reaching for more. 'Be content with such things as ye have.' Contentment frees us from the endless, anxious pursuit of more.

Be generous

The Bible consistently commends open-handed giving. 'God loveth a cheerful giver.' Generosity — to God's work and those in need — loosens money's grip on us and reflects the heart of a generous God. Giving is one of the healthiest things we can do with money.

Save and plan wisely

Scripture also commends foresight — saving, planning, and providing for the future. 'Commit thy works unto the LORD, and thy thoughts shall be established.' We steward wisely, working and saving diligently, while trusting God rather than our bank balance for our security.

Handling money biblically means keeping God first, guarding against the love of money, living within your means with contentment, giving generously, and saving and planning wisely — all while trusting God as your provider. Money makes a terrible master but a useful servant. Steward it well, hold it with an open hand, and let it serve God's purposes rather than rule your heart.