Devotion

God’s Viewpoint About Money

Charles F. Stanley

Scripture: 1 Timothy 6:9-11

I. Introduction: What is the proper way for a believer to view his or her finances? The Bible both encourages us to trust in God’s provision and warns about the misuse of funds. Let’s examine what Scripture says about wealth, and how we are to acquire, give, and spend our money.

II. What does the Bible say about our finances?

A. God is the source and owner of all wealth (Ps. 24:1; 50:10).

B. Understanding the Lord’s viewpoint on our finances can prevent us from making costly mistakes. God’s Word contains more verses about money than about heaven, hell, or prayer.

C. The Bible encourages positive use of money. Our cash is simply a means of exchange and is not itself evil (Matt. 25:14-30). God gives us money to be used wisely—for food, clothing, and other basic needs (Luke 6:38), and for enjoyment of His blessings (Eccl. 5:19-20).

D. Scripture warns us about the misuse of money. We are not to wear ourselves out to become rich (Prov. 23:4-5) or fall in love with money (1 Tim. 6:10). Financial blessing can turn into a snare if we aren’t careful (Prov. 15:6).

III. God shows us how to acquire wealth through:

A. Working: A significant way the Lord provides for us is through our jobs (2 Thess. 3:10).

B. Investing: We can put our money to work and see it multiply through wise investments.

C. Giving: The Lord sometimes uses people to provide our needs or leads us to assist others financially. When you and I share our abundance with others, God blesses us with more: “Give and it will be given to you” (Luke 6:38).

D. Saving: Even a dollar a week adds up over time. Proverbs 21:20 says, “A wise man saves for the future, but the foolish man spends whatever he gets.”

IV. The Lord guides us in how to use money.

A. To meet personal needs: Philippians 4:19 says, “My God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory.”

B. To carry on God’s work: In the Old Testament, one tenth of a person’s income (a “tithe”) was earmarked for God’s work; today, that amount continues to be an appropriate guideline for giving to the church. The Lord uses financial gifts from His people to support missions work around the world. As Malachi 3:10—and many a Christian—testify, God responds by pouring out blessing “until it overflows.”

C. For God-given goals: For instance, you may set a goal to purchase a home, buy a more reliable car, get out of debt, or help your children attend college. While we shouldn’t be greedy, there is nothing wrong with seeking to improve our lives.

D. To meet the needs of others: Follow the Spirit’s prompting and generously assist others who are genuinely in need.

V. God uses money to accomplish specific purposes.

A. To train us: As we rely on the Lord for financial provision, He reveals His faithfulness. He also uses money to teach us self-discipline.

B. To test us: Sometimes God withholds what we need until we’re ready to wholly rely upon Him—not our resources. What we do with our money indicates what holds first place in our hearts (Matt. 6:21) and our willingness to obey the Lord.

C. For our testimony: Talk with others about the way God miraculously provides for you. Share how tithing is a vital part of getting out of debt. When we testify about the Lord’s marvelous provision, the world listens and our heavenly Father receives glory.

D.To share the gospel: Jesus commands us to take the gospel to every creature (Mark 16:15 KJV). Giving is one way we participate in taking the good news to the lost.

VI. Conclusion: From the Lord’s perspective, it doesn’t matter how much money you have. Whether you are blessed with much or little, you can choose to obey Him in this area of your life. Put into practice God’s principles for managing your money. The Father will be sure to bless you and provide for you in exciting ways.