We can easily find ourselves in a dangerous relationship with money. As caretakers (whether for children, parents, self-etc.), we know that money is spent on physical needs; It is also spent to support the church. However, that same money is not the currency of our spiritual needs. And yet our ultimate goal is spiritual perfection. (Philippians 3:12) How do we reconcile this? Did you know the Scriptures actually debunk many commonly believed "facts" about money?
We do need money. Money is exchanged for goods and services we use to keep our physical bodies from perishing. And financial gain is one way God blesses us. Malachi 3:10 Bring all the tithes into the storehouse, That there may be food in My house, And try Me now in this,” Says the Lord of hosts, “If I will not open for you the windows of heaven And pour out for you such blessing That there will not be room enough to receive it. Also Genesis 26:12-14. Having a lot of money does not make you rich. Revelation 3:17-18 Because you say, ‘I am rich, have become wealthy, and have need of nothing’—and do not know that you are wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked— I counsel you to buy from Me gold refined in the fire, that you may be rich; and white garments, that you may be clothed, that the shame of your nakedness may not be revealed; and anoint your eyes with eye salve, that you may see. Also Proverbs 10:22. Wealth does not measure spiritual status. Having riches does not make you inherently unrighteous. Having little does not make you inherently righteous, and vice versa. Psalm 37:16 A little that a righteous man has Is better than the riches of many wicked. The Lord speaking to Solomon in 1 Kings 3:12-13 behold, I have done according to your words; see, I have given you a wise and understanding heart, so that there has not been anyone like you before you, nor shall any like you arise after you. And I have also given you what you have not asked: both riches and honor, so that there shall not be anyone like you among the kings all your days. And Matt 25:24-27.
The scriptures also lay out some very practical thoughts on finances. To gain riches, one must work steadily and purposefully. Proverbs 10:4 He who has a slack hand becomes poor, But the hand of the diligent makes rich. We should pay our debts. Romans 13:7-8 Render therefore to all their due: taxes to whom taxes are due, customs to whom customs, fear to whom fear, honor to whom honor. Owe no one anything except to love one another, for he who loves another has fulfilled the law.
Whatever your financial goals, there is advice in God's Word. And let your ultimate desire be for heavenly treasures. In doing this, God has promised reward both in heaven and Earth. (Hebrews 13:5-6; 1 Timothy 6:6-12; Matthew 6:19-33) To attend a workshop with more information about Money Matters, please visit the Sister to Sister Lectureship Retreat Information Page!
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