The Bible has a wealth of guidance on managing money wisely—indeed, there are over 2,000 verses about money, depending on the source.
According to Relevant Magazine, Jesus discussed money in 11 of his 39 parables. Given the frequent mention of money in the Bible, we strive to learn how to manage it effectively. Trevin Wax, in his Gospel Coalition article “Your Money Will Trick You,” asserts, “Our money lies to us, constantly. Whenever we see our accumulation of assets or the increasing dollars in our account, Mammon whispers: I am your security. I am your hope. I make the good life possible. . . [Meanwhile] Jesus is shouting, ‘It’s a lie! One’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions’ (Luke 12:15).”
We must take financial management seriously, not just when we feel the need for more. Most Bible verses about money can be categorized into themes that guide us in wise financial management: tithing, budgeting, saving, giving, and prioritizing God over money.
1. Think about What the Bible Says About Tithing
When managing our finances, we must remember that it’s all God’s money. Giving back to God is an act of gratitude, humility, reverence, and trust. That’s why the Israelites were told in Leviticus 27:30, “A tithe of everything from the land, whether grain from the soil or fruit from the trees, belongs to the LORD; it is holy to the LORD.”
The Hebrew word for “tithe” means a tenth. Before enjoying the fruits of their labor, the Israelites were to sacrifice a tenth to God. Do we continue this practice today?
The spirit of the tithe remains: give to God (your church) before other organizations and personal expenses. Always consider how to help the poor as Jesus commanded, and give with the right attitude, not out of obligation.
Verses for Further Study: Proverbs 3:9, Malachi 3:10, Deuteronomy 16:17, Proverbs 13:22, Acts 2:43-47; 4:32-37, 11:27-30; Galatians :10, 1 Corinthians 16:1-4.
2. Think about What the Bible Says About Budgeting
Although Jesus was talking about the cost of discipleship in one of his parables, His words also apply to budgeting. He said, “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it? For if you lay the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you, saying, ‘This person began to build and wasn’t able to finish.’”
A key tool for managing money is planning how it will come in and go out—all to the glory of God. Our work should be dedicated to God, conducted with integrity and honesty, and should not violate His moral laws.
When it comes to spending, we need to prayerfully plan how our money will be given, saved, and spent. As everything we own belongs to the Lord, we must steward it wisely. Ideally, your first fruits go to God, and you spend money in a way that allows you to give to those less fortunate in Jesus’ name.
Verses for Further Study: Luke 14:28-30, 1 Corinthians 16:2, Proverbs 21:5, Proverbs 27:23, Proverbs 13:16, 1 Timothy 5:8.
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