cross facebook2 instagram twitter question Search Gear

Wealth Through A Scriptural Lens

Posted on December 14, 2017 by Ben Cooper

It’s been well documented that Scripture talks about our possessions more than almost anything else. In fact, Jesus covered the topic more than he mentioned heaven and hell combined. For God to give the issue such real estate, He must view it as an important part of our calling and obedience as humans.


In the book God is at Work, Ken Eldred highlights six truths that God lays out for us in His Word:

1. Wealth is to be considered in all areas—physical, mental, material, and spiritual.

To confine wealth to only dollars and cents would be to limit the ways God can use resources in our lives. What would it look like for us all to consider being as generous with our mental, physical and spiritual health as we are with our material?

2. Wealth is from God—he is the source of all prosperity and blessing (Matthew 7:11Deuteronomy 8:8).

We do not create our own wealth. As much as we would love to take credit for the abundance we may experience, we must recognize that what we have today could be gone tomorrow. Of what are you fearfully holding tightly to that you need to recognize God as the provider?

3. Wealth is to be managed—we are the stewards of the material possessions entrusted to us (1 Corinthians 10:26Matthew 25:14-30).

When we find ourselves in a season of abundance, it can be natural to try and hoard or preserve the good things we have within our reach. However, we know from the parable of the talents that Jesus was not a fan of “burying” what has been given to us. How could God’s view of stewardship affect the way the world views managing wealth?

4. Wealth is to be used for God’s purposes (1 Timothy 6:17-182 Corinthians 9:11).

When it comes to making decisions, we usually don’t have a clear picture of what’s ultimately best for us. Like a two year old who doesn’t like or understand a decision their parents make, we often have only a limited perspective of what God is doing in our lives. How much of your wealth are you willing to commit to God’s purposes?

5. Wealth is to be enjoyed (1 Timothy 6:17).

This may feel counter to the previous truth, but God has provided us things in this world for our enjoyment. And to reference the Westminster Catechism, man’s chief end is to glorify God and to enjoy him forever. What has God provided you that you have been afraid to fully enjoy?

6. Wealth is not our source of trust—God is (Luke 12:34).

In our sinfulness, we can believe the lie that outward wealth and abundance is proof that we are more in God’s favor. Our relationship with God cannot hinge on whether we are comfortable or not. When you are in times of great need, how quickly do you turn to God for hope?


For additional perspective, please read these posts from The Institute for Faith, Work & Economics:

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

All Blog Entries
>