Welcome to Week 5 of our “Mature Me” series with Richie Brown. Today, we will discuss a topic that might feel a bit uncomfortable for some: wealth and how to handle it according to biblical principles. Many of us grow up without proper guidance on this subject, leaving us to learn from our culture rather than God’s Word.
Our parents might have missed the opportunity to have the “money talk” with us. As a result, we may carry misconceptions and unaddressed beliefs about money. Richie Brown aims to provide clarity on this important topic, exploring what the Bible truly says about wealth and financial stewardship.
Turning to Deuteronomy 8, we see that God gives us the ability to produce wealth. This is not just a secular concept but a biblical truth. Embracing this idea opens doors to fulfilling God’s calling in our lives. Let’s delve into God’s plan for our wealth, understanding how we can align our finances with His teachings.
Understanding a Biblical View of Wealth
Understanding a biblical view of wealth starts with recognizing that wealth itself is not evil. The Bible does not condemn having money, but it does stress how we obtain and use it. Deuteronomy 8:18 tells us that it is God who gives us the ability to produce wealth. This indicates that wealth generation is part of God’s plan for us.
God’s view of wealth is different from society’s. Society often equates wealth with power and success. The Bible, however, teaches that wealth should be used to honor God and help others. In Proverbs 3:9-10, we are instructed to honor the Lord with our wealth and the first fruits of our produce. This teaches us that wealth should not be hoarded but used to further God’s work.
It’s also important to understand that wealth is a tool for stewardship. We are called to manage what God has given us wisely. This includes tithing, saving, and giving to those in need. A biblical view of wealth sees money as a resource to be used for good, not as an end goal.
God-Given Abilities to Produce Wealth
God grants each of us unique abilities to generate wealth. Deuteronomy 8:18 clearly states that God gives us the power to earn money. This means that our talents and skills are gifts from God, meant to be used to support ourselves and help others.
Our abilities might be different, but they are all valuable. Some people have business skills, while others are talented at craftsmanship or teaching. The key is to identify and use these talents effectively, acknowledging that they come from God.
It’s crucial to understand that work is not a curse but a blessing. Genesis shows us that work was part of God’s perfect creation, meant for our fulfillment. When we use our skills and put in effort, we are honoring God. Proverbs 14:23 says, “All hard work brings a profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.” This reminds us that diligence and effort are part of God’s plan for our prosperity.
So, embrace your God-given abilities and work diligently. Recognize that your skills are God’s gifts, and use them to create wealth and make a positive impact.
Practical Steps for Managing Wealth According to Biblical Principles
Managing wealth in line with biblical principles involves several practical steps. First and foremost, tithing is a key practice. By giving ten percent of your income back to God, you honor Him and show your trust in His provision. Malachi 3:10 encourages believers to bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, promising blessings in return.
Budgeting is another essential step. Create a plan for how your money will be spent each month. Proverbs 21:5 says, “The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” A budget helps you stay organized and ensures you are living within your means.
Here are some additional practical steps for managing wealth:
- Save Regularly: Make saving a priority. Proverbs 13:11 tells us that “dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.” Set aside a portion of your income for emergencies and future needs.
- Avoid Debt: Borrowing money can lead to financial stress. Romans 13:8 advises, “Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another.”
- Give Generously: God loves a cheerful giver (2 Corinthians 9:7). Helping others in need strengthens our community and aligns with God’s teachings.
- Invest Wisely: Seek advice and invest your money to grow it responsibly, reflecting Jesus’ parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30).
The Importance of Generosity in Financial Stewardship
Generosity is a cornerstone of financial stewardship. The Bible teaches that giving is a way to honor God and show love to others. Generosity helps us combat greed and keeps our focus on God as our provider. Proverbs 11:25 says, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”
Being generous isn’t just about giving money; it also includes sharing your time and talents. Volunteering at church or helping someone in need are acts of kindness that reflect God’s love. Generosity also builds community and fosters trust and cooperation among people.
Additionally, practicing generosity brings spiritual rewards. The Bible promises that giving will lead to blessings. Luke 6:38 states, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over, will be poured into your lap.” This suggests that our generosity directly impacts the blessings we receive.
Being generous also cultivates a grateful heart. When we give, we are reminded of the many blessings we have received from God. This fosters gratitude and helps us maintain a healthy perspective on wealth.
Conclusion
Understanding and managing wealth according to biblical principles helps us fulfill God’s purpose for our lives. By using our God-given abilities to produce wealth, and following practical steps like tithing, budgeting, and giving generously, we align our finances with God’s will. Generosity, in particular, opens our hearts and enriches our communities.
At Amarillo Fellowship Church, our churches in Amarillo, TX, are committed to helping you grow in faith and financial wisdom. Join us in our journey towards spiritual and financial maturity. If you want to learn more about how to manage wealth biblically, connect with us at Amarillo Fellowship Church today. Let’s walk this path together!