It often surprises Christians when they discover just how much the Bible talks about money.

In fact, there are more than 2,300 verses on money, wealth and possessions. Jesus spoke about money roughly 15% of the time in his preaching, and 11 of his 39 parables. It was his most talked about topic.

What Jesus Taught About Money and the Heart 

This passage in Matthew gives us a clue:

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”  

Matthew 6:19-21

Jesus spoke about money not because he was obsessed with it or wanted us to have lots of it, but because he knew that money was a heart issue and one of the most likely reasons someone would not follow him or give up on him.

Why Money Is Spiritually Neutral but Powerful 

The money you have in your wallet has no intrinsic value; it is worth what the Government says it is worth. It is essentially morally neutral and powerless. The Devil uses money to seduce us, and that is when it can become powerful in a negative direction. He wants you to fall in love with it so that you will become a slave to money rather than its master. The flip slide is when we use money as a tool to invest in God’s kingdom; money becomes a powerful instrument of good.

How Money Reveals Our Spiritual Condition

Think for a moment about contemporary society. How many people’s lives have been ruined because they have been seduced by money? They choose a job because of what it pays, not because of the fulfilment it provides. In Australia, one survey said that nearly 60% of people would quit their jobs tomorrow if they had more money. Their job choice and decision to remain are heavily influenced by money.

Money is essential because how we think about it affects how we behave with it. Taking this one step further, how we feel and behave with money reflects our spiritual condition. When we hoard money, or are envious of others’ money, or spend money we don’t have (debt), then there is a good chance we have been seduced!

Can Christians Serve Both God and Money?

Jesus presents us with a clear choice:

“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.

Matthew 6:24

The issue is simple – who will we serve? Will we serve God or will we serve money? Notice Jesus said you ‘cannot’ serve both. It is impossible; it is one or the other, and all of us must choose. I heard it likened to trying to chase two rabbits at the same time – it can’t be done!

Why did Jesus make such a tough statement? Because he knew that our relationship with money would profoundly impact our relationship with God. If we worry about money, we won’t trust God.   If we are chasing after money, then it’s doubtful that we’re chasing after God and trying to advance his kingdom.

As with the above verse, much of what God’s word says about money is a warning message. God wants nothing to come between him and us. Sometimes God prevents people from gaining wealth because he knows that it will harm them. He is not trying to deny them; he is trying to protect them.

Why the Bible Warns So Strongly About Debt 

Lastly, we have a culture drowning in debt. It is so widespread and so ingrained that very few people, believers and unbelievers alike, stop to consider the ramifications. It is not just a problem at the individual level, but also at the corporate and Government levels. The United States owes $60,000,000,000,000. This monumental sum cannot be repaid and therefore won’t be repaid. The verses on debt in the Bible are all warnings. The Bible warns us that debt can lead to slavery!

How true that is today.

FAQs About Money in the Bible

Why does the Bible talk about money so often?

The Bible talks about money so often because money is closely connected to the heart. Jesus taught that where our treasure is, our heart will be there too. How we handle money reveals what we truly value and trust.

How many times does the Bible mention money?

The Bible contains more than 2,300 verses about money, wealth, and possessions. Jesus spoke about money frequently, around 15% of his teaching and in many of his parables.

Why did Jesus talk about money more than other topics?

Jesus talked about money because he knew it could easily take God’s place in people’s lives. Money has the power to influence decisions, priorities, and faith, making it a critical spiritual issue.

Is money considered evil in the Bible?

No. Money itself is morally neutral. It becomes harmful when people love it, chase it, or trust it more than God. When used wisely, money can be a powerful tool for good and for advancing God’s kingdom.

What does money reveal about a person’s spiritual condition?

How someone thinks, feels, and behaves with money often reflects their spiritual condition. Hoarding, envy, overspending, and debt can point to misplaced trust or unhealthy priorities.

Can Christians serve both God and money?

No. Jesus clearly said that no one can serve two masters. Christians must choose whether they will serve God or money. It cannot be both.

Why does the Bible warn so strongly about debt?

The Bible warns about debt because it can lead to bondage and loss of freedom. Scripture often describes debt as a form of slavery that places people under pressure and limits their ability to live generously and faithfully.

Why would God prevent someone from becoming wealthy?

Sometimes God may prevent wealth because He knows it could harm a person spiritually. This is not about punishment, but protection, so that nothing replaces God as the centre of their life.

Article supplied with thanks to Wealth with Purpose.

About the Author: Alex is a licensed financial planner and the founder of Wealth with Purpose a Stewardship Ministry that helps Christians handle their money God’s way.

Feature image: Canva

As a person of faith, I have always been intrigued by the biblical perspective on wealth and prosperity. It is a topic that often sparks debates and misunderstandings. However, by delving into the pages of the Bible, we can uncover a profound understanding of God’s intentions for money and how it relates to our lives. In this article, we will explore the role of money in the Bible, God’s intentions for wealth and prosperity, and address common misconceptions about money.

The Role of Money in the Bible

Money has always played a significant role in human society, and it is no different in the Bible. In fact, the Bible contains numerous references to money, wealth, and financial matters. From the Old Testament to the New Testament, we find stories and teachings that illustrate the importance of money in the lives of God’s people.

One of the most well-known passages regarding money is found in 1 Timothy 6:10, which states, “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” This verse highlights the potential dangers of money when it becomes an object of obsession and greed. However, it is crucial to understand that money itself is not inherently evil. It is the love and pursuit of money at the expense of one’s relationship with God and others that can lead to harmful consequences.

God’s Intentions for Wealth and Prosperity

Contrary to popular belief, God does not condemn wealth and prosperity. In fact, throughout the Bible, we see instances where God blesses His people with abundance and prosperity. However, it is essential to recognize that God’s intentions for wealth go beyond mere accumulation and personal gain.

God desires that His children use their wealth and prosperity to bring about positive change in the world. He calls us to be good stewards of the resources He has entrusted to us, using them to bless others and advance His kingdom on Earth. This means that wealth should never be viewed as an end in itself but rather as a means to fulfill God’s purposes and impact the lives of those around us.

Misconceptions About Money in the Bible

Unfortunately, there are many misconceptions about money in the Bible that have led to misunderstandings and even misinterpretations of scripture. One common misconception is the belief that poverty is a sign of godliness and that wealth is a sign of sinfulness. However, this view fails to consider the full counsel of the Bible.

While the Bible warns against the dangers of greed and the love of money, it also affirms the blessings that come from diligent work and wise stewardship. In Proverbs 10:4, we read, “Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.” This verse highlights the importance of hard work and responsible financial management in achieving prosperity.

Key Biblical Principles for Managing Wealth

To effectively manage wealth and embrace God’s intentions for prosperity, we must adhere to key biblical principles. These principles provide a foundation for wise financial stewardship and guide us in making sound decisions regarding our money.

1. Seek God’s Kingdom First: In Matthew 6:33, Jesus instructs us to seek God’s kingdom and His righteousness above all else, and He promises that all our needs will be provided. This principle reminds us to prioritize our relationship with God and align our financial decisions with His will.

2. Practice Contentment: Contentment is a vital principle in managing wealth. In Philippians 4:11-12, the Apostle Paul writes, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances.” This verse encourages us to find satisfaction in God and be content with what we have, rather than constantly striving for more.

3. Be a Generous Giver: The Bible consistently teaches the importance of generosity and giving. In 2 Corinthians 9:7, we are reminded that “God loves a cheerful giver.” By generously giving to others, we reflect God’s heart and demonstrate our trust in His provision.

Examples of Biblical Figures who Experienced Prosperity

Throughout the Bible, we find examples of individuals who experienced prosperity as a result of their faithfulness and obedience to God. These stories serve as powerful reminders that God is not opposed to blessing His people with wealth.

One notable example is King Solomon, who was known for his wisdom and wealth. In 1 Kings 10:23, it is recorded that “King Solomon was greater in riches and wisdom than all the other kings of the earth.” However, Solomon’s prosperity was not solely for his own benefit but also to fulfill God’s purposes for Israel and bring glory to His name.

Another example is Joseph, who went from being a slave to becoming the second-in-command of Egypt. Through his wisdom and godly character, Joseph was able to navigate a season of abundance and a season of famine, ultimately bringing blessing to his family and the Egyptian people.

These stories remind us that prosperity is not an end in itself but rather a tool that God can use to accomplish His purposes in our lives and the lives of others.

Biblical Teachings on Generosity and Giving

Generosity and giving are recurring themes throughout the Bible. In fact, the Bible contains numerous teachings and principles regarding the importance of giving to those in need.

In Proverbs 11:24-25, we read, “One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly but comes to poverty. A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” These verses emphasize the principle of sowing and reaping, highlighting that as we give generously, we not only bless others but also open ourselves up to receive blessings from God.

Additionally, Jesus Himself taught about the significance of giving in Luke 6:38, saying, “Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over, will be poured into your lap. For with the measure you use, it will be measured to you.” This verse emphasizes the principle of reciprocity, assuring us that our generosity will be rewarded.

Balancing Material Wealth and Spiritual Well-being

While wealth and prosperity are not inherently sinful, it is essential to maintain a healthy balance between material wealth and spiritual well-being. The pursuit of wealth should never take precedence over our relationship with God and our commitment to living according to His principles.

In Mark 8:36, Jesus poses a thought-provoking question, “What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?” This verse serves as a reminder that true fulfillment and lasting joy cannot be found solely in material possessions. Our ultimate satisfaction and well-being come from knowing and walking in obedience to God.

Maintaining a proper perspective on wealth requires regular self-examination and a willingness to surrender our desires and ambitions to God. By prioritizing our spiritual well-being above material gain, we can experience true abundance and live in alignment with God’s intentions for our lives.

Practical Steps for Applying Biblical Principles to Personal Finance

Understanding the biblical perspective on wealth and prosperity is just the beginning. To truly embrace God’s intentions for our finances, we must take practical steps to apply these principles to our personal lives. Here are some practical suggestions for managing our finances in a way that aligns with God’s Word:

1. Develop a budget: Creating a budget allows us to allocate our financial resources wisely and prioritize what is essential. By planning and tracking our expenses, we can ensure that our money is being used in alignment with God’s principles.

2. Give generously: Actively seek opportunities to give generously to those in need. This can be through financial contributions, volunteering time and skills, or supporting charitable organizations. By giving, we reflect God’s heart of generosity and allow Him to use our resources to bless others.

3. Seek godly wisdom: Surround yourself with wise and godly individuals who can provide guidance and accountability in financial matters. Proverbs 15:22 tells us, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed.” Seeking wise counsel can help us make sound financial decisions and avoid unnecessary pitfalls.

Embracing God’s Intentions for Wealth and Prosperity

In conclusion, the biblical perspective on wealth and prosperity is a nuanced and multifaceted topic. While the Bible cautions against the love of money and the pursuit of wealth for selfish gain, it also affirms the blessings that come from diligent work, wise stewardship, and generous giving.

As followers of Christ, it is our responsibility to understand and embrace God’s intentions for wealth and prosperity. By aligning our financial decisions with biblical principles, we can experience the joy and fulfillment that come from living in alignment with God’s purposes.

Let us strive to be good stewards of the resources God has entrusted to us, using them to bring glory to His name and make a positive impact in the world. May we seek God’s kingdom first, practice contentment, and be generous givers, knowing that our true wealth lies not in material possessions, but in our relationship with Him.

For more articles and resources on managing wealth from a biblical perspective, sign up to our newsletter below and we’ll let you know as soon as we publish new content.

FAQs About Wealth and Prosperity in the Bible 

Does the Bible say money is evil?

No, the Bible does not say that money itself is evil. It teaches that the love of money can lead to harm, but wealth on its own is not sinful. What matters most is how money is used and where a person’s heart is focused.

Can Christians be wealthy and still follow God?

Yes, the Bible shows that God can bless people with wealth. At the same time, Scripture makes it clear that wealth should never replace God as our highest priority and must be handled with wisdom and faithful stewardship.

What does wealth and prosperity mean from a biblical perspective?

In the Bible, prosperity is not limited to financial gain. It includes spiritual growth, wise living, meaningful work, and the ability to bless others. Biblical prosperity focuses on using resources for God’s purposes rather than personal comfort alone.

Does the Bible promise prosperity to everyone who follows God?

No, the Bible does not promise that every believer will become wealthy. It promises God’s provision and guidance, but not guaranteed financial success. Prosperity is never presented as proof of spiritual maturity or God’s favor.

What warnings does the Bible give about wealth?

The Bible warns that wealth can lead people to trust money instead of God, distract them from spiritual priorities, and create imbalance in life. Scripture consistently teaches that dependence on material gain can weaken a person’s faith.

How should Christians view wealth according to the Bible?

Christians are called to view wealth as a trust from God. This means working diligently, practicing contentment, giving generously, and using financial resources to serve others and advance God’s kingdom. Faithful stewardship, not prosperity itself, is the biblical goal.

Article supplied with thanks to Wealth with Purpose.

About the Author: Alex is a licensed financial planner and the founder of Wealth with Purpose a Stewardship Ministry that helps Christians handle their money God’s way.

Feature image: Canva

Money can feel messy for many Christians. On one hand we want to be generous and focused on eternal things. On the other hand bills arrive, kids need schooling, and culture pushes us to upgrade everything.

The result is confusion, guilt, and anxiety about finances. But money is not inherently unspiritual. When handled well, it becomes a powerful tool to serve others and advance the things that matter most.

Three Reasons Christians Commonly Struggle with Money

• There are a few clear patterns that keep people stuck. 
• Money is rarely taught, at school, in many families, and often not in church either. So people grow up with little practical financial education. 
• A spiritual tension around money. Many believe building wealth or thinking about finances is somehow selfish or unspiritual. That leads to avoidance instead of wise stewardship. 
• Culture pushes consumption. We live in a constant upgrade economy that encourages spending beyond our means. Mixed messages create stress and keep people unsure how to start. 

Money is a Tool, Not a God 

There is an important distinction between money itself and the love of money. The Bible warns about the love of money. Money becomes dangerous only when it becomes an idol. 

For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. 

Used correctly, money enables good. It provides for families, funds ministries, starts businesses and helps the poor. The problem is when money becomes the master instead of the servant. Guarding the heart is essential. The goal is not to demonize money, but to learn how to use it for Kingdom purposes. 

What Stewardship Looks Like in Everyday Life 

Stewardship simply means managing what has been entrusted to us. That includes time, talent and treasure. There is a spiritual side and a practical side. 

Spiritual aspects 

• Living generously and sacrificially. 
• Guarding against greed and idolatry. 
• Inviting God into financial decisions and seeking wisdom. 

Practical habits 

• Living within your means. 
• Avoiding unnecessary debt. 
• Saving wisely and planning for the future. 
• Allocating money intentionally for giving, needs and goals. 

All of these practical actions are consistent with biblical teaching. Honoring God with our finances is both spiritual and practical. 

The Biggest Money Mistake: No Plan 

One of the most common mistakes is living without a plan. Without a budget or clear goals people tend to react to circumstances instead of directing money towards what matters. The consequences are predictable. Debt creeps in, giving becomes a challenge and stress grows. 

When you build a simple plan and allocate money intentionally, it changes behavior and creates peace. Commit those plans to God and ask for wisdom as you plan. 

How to Get Started When You Feel Overwhelmed

If you are feeling pressure from the cost of living or just uncertain where to begin, start small. Little steps compound over time. A simple starter routine looks like this.

• Track every expense for a month. Write down every transaction so you know exactly where your money goes.
• Set simple goals. Decide how much to give, save and use for essentials. Even modest percentages move you forward.
• Create a basic budget. Allocate income toward needs, debt repayment, savings and generosity.
• Make a debt plan. Choose a method to pay down debt and be consistent.
• Invite God into the process. Ask for wisdom, then act with faith and discipline.

Tracking your spending is the single most powerful first step. Awareness builds control and reduces reactive decisions.

Generosity as a Financial Posture 

Generosity should be central to a Christian financial life. Jesus modeled radical generosity. Our response to that grace is to live generously toward others. Generosity does more than help people. It also breaks the power that money can have over us. Giving shifts the heart away from hoarding and toward service. 

Generosity produces joy and shows tangible impact. When money is used to help others, support ministry and meet real needs, it creates meaning beyond mere accumulation. Start small and increase as you are able. The habit of giving reconfigures priorities and frees you from the fear of scarcity. 

Practical Checklist to Start Right Away 

Article supplied with thanks to Wealth with Purpose.

About the Author: Alex is a licensed financial planner and the founder of Wealth with Purpose a Stewardship Ministry that helps Christians handle their money God’s way.

Feature image: Canva

The current environment marked by persistent cost-of-living pressures, heightened geopolitical volatility, and increasing social polarisation isn’t just a temporary market condition, it’s a psychological stress test on consumers.

One of the trends we expect to see in 2026 is defined as ‘Hope Under Strain’: a state where optimism has contracted, forcing individuals to actively build resilience and agency rather than passively relying on external institutions.

For leaders across businesses, marketing, finance, understanding this pivotal shift is essential for recalibrating strategy, communications, and product design.

The collective outlook for Australia is noticeably cooling. While two in five Australians (64%) remain optimistic about the country’s future in three years, this figure represents a tangible decline from the 72% recorded just four years ago in 2021.

This decline is a direct response to tangible external threats perceived to be outside of personal control. Those include the rising cost of living, being the single most prominent concern, affecting 77% of Australians (Extremely/Very Concerned). Geopolitical Threats, emerging or growing international wars/conflicts (62%) and global uncertainty (57%) rank as significant anxieties.

Despite these overwhelming external threats, reliance on the government to build a better world is only marginally increasing, cited by 31% of Australians a reliance that is clearly strained given the overall decline in optimism.

The data confirms that the customer’s mindset is dominated by a complex interplay of personal financial insecurity and global instability.

Hope Under Strain defines the new psychological state where consumers are grappling with simultaneous, non-negotiable pressures. It forces a strategic contraction of focus.

Taking Agency Despite Uncertainty

Faced with an increasingly turbulent world, the consumer response is not one of paralysis, but of agency. This shift from passive coping to cultivating personal agency is the counter-measure to the ‘Strain.’

Just over half of Australians (55%) are hopeful about their future, and 50% strongly or somewhat agree they can navigate challenges without the loss of hope. Just under half, however, strongly/somewhat agree they have the agency to shape the future they want (47%) or see themselves having a responsibility to shape the world they want through their actions (46%).

Young People Finding a Sense of Agency

The greatest sense of hope and agency resides within the younger generations. Gen Y (31-45) is the most likely to strongly agree they have the agency to shape a positive future for themselves (55%), compared to just 37% of Baby Boomers. This represents a 1.5x multiplier in personal belief. Gen Y also leads in taking responsibility to shape the world they want (55%), compared to 35% of Baby Boomers.

This heightened sense of ownership contributes to the higher optimism seen in the younger cohort, with 73% of Gen Z (18-30) remaining optimistic about the future, contrasting sharply with just 53% of Baby Boomers.

Article supplied with thanks to McCrindle.

About the Author: McCrindle are a team of researchers and communications specialists who discover insights, and tell the story of Australians – what we do, and who we are.

Feature image: Canva

For many Christians, planning for retirement feels selfish or worldly. But neglecting it can actually burden families and limit Kingdom impact. 

55% of Americans have no retirement savings (Bankrate, 2024). 

Without planning, Christians risk entering old age in financial fear instead of Kingdom freedom. 

“A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children.” — Proverbs 13:22 

This article will show you how to prepare for retirement and legacy with stewardship, not selfishness. 

Why Retirement Planning is Biblical 

• Planning ensures you’re not a financial burden to loved ones. 
• It allows you to fund Kingdom causes beyond your working years. 
• It sets an example of wisdom for future generations. 

The Common Tension 

• Bills > Tithing → “I’ll give when I can.” 
• Debt vs. Giving → “Should I pay debt first or tithe?” 
• Fear vs. Faith → “What if I don’t have enough after giving?”
   

Practical Steps to Balance Giving and Stewardship 

• Save With a Stewardship Mindset
• Use retirement accounts (401k, IRA). 
• Prioritize long-term growth over quick gains.  
• Balance Saving + Giving
• Don’t neglect generosity while saving.  
• Adopt a “Live, Give, Save” rhythm.  
• Protect Your Family Through Estate Planning
• Draft wills and trusts. 
• Consider life insurance as provision for loved ones.  
• Invest in Eternal Legacy
• Fund scholarships, mission funds, or ministries. 
• Write down family values + faith testimony alongside financial inheritance. 

Legacy Beyond Money 

True inheritance isn’t just assets, it’s passing on faith. 

Deuteronomy 6:6-7: “These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children.” 

Teach your children not just how to manage money, but how to live generously and faithfully. 

Retirement and legacy planning is not about hoarding, it’s about preparing wisely so your faith and finances extend beyond your lifetime. 

FAQs 

Q1: Is it unbiblical to save for retirement? 

No. Saving is an act of stewardship that prevents becoming a burden on family and allows continued generosity. 

Q2: How much should Christians save for retirement? 

It varies. A general rule is 15% of income, but Christians should prayerfully balance saving with generosity. 

Q3: What’s the difference between leaving a financial inheritance and a spiritual legacy? 

A financial inheritance provides resources; a spiritual legacy ensures faith and values are passed on. Both are biblical (Proverbs 13:22, Deuteronomy 6:7). 

Q4: Should Christians write a will? 

Yes. Wills and estate plans prevent confusion, ensure assets bless loved ones, and can include charitable giving. 

Free Resource for You

Step into retirement with purpose, wisdom, and a Christ-centered plan. Download Retirement Revolution

Article supplied with thanks to Wealth with Purpose.

About the Author: Alex is a licensed financial planner and the founder of Wealth with Purpose a Stewardship Ministry that helps Christians handle their money God’s way.

Feature image: Canva

For many Christians, money creates tension. On one hand, they want to provide for their families and build security. On the other, they fear falling into greed or “prosperity gospel” distortions. 

So, is it wrong for Christians to build wealth? 

“The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” — 1 Timothy 6:10 

Notice: It’s not money itself, but the love of it that leads to trouble. This article unpacks how Christians can pursue wealth as a tool for Kingdom impact, not self-indulgence. 

Breaking the Myths About Christians and Wealth 

Myth 1: Money is Evil

Truth: Money is neutral; it reveals heart priorities.

Myth 2: Wealth Equals Greed

Truth: Wealth can amplify generosity and multiply Kingdom work.

Myth 3: Faith Means Poverty

Truth: Scripture celebrates wise stewards (Parable of the Talents, Matthew 25). 

Data That Supports Biblical Wealth 

• Higher net-worth families give 4x more to charitable causes than middle-income families (Indiana University Study, 2023).  
• Christians with margin in their finances fund churches, missions, and ministries faster. 

How Christians Can Build Wealth the Right Way 

• Start With Intentional Saving & Investing
• Save 3–6 months of expenses. 
• Invest in long-term vehicles (index funds, retirement accounts).  
• Steward investments with integrity (avoid exploitative industries).
• Align Wealth Goals With Kingdom Goals
• Define “enough” → when your needs are met, redirect overflow to giving. 
• Write a Kingdom Impact Plan alongside your financial plan.  
• Teach Wealth Stewardship to Your Family
• Deuteronomy 6:7 calls parents to pass on values.  
• Involve children in giving and saving decisions. 

The Role of Contentment 

Wealth without contentment leads to emptiness. Paul writes: 

“Godliness with contentment is great gain.” — 1 Timothy 6:6 

Contentment keeps wealth from becoming idolatry. 

Christians can build wealth with a clear conscience, if it’s approached as stewardship, not status. 

FAQs 

Q1: Is it wrong for Christians to want wealth? 

No. Wealth itself is not sinful. The love of money (1 Timothy 6:10) is what Scripture warns against. 

Q2: How can Christians avoid greed when building wealth? 

By setting “enough” goals, practicing generosity, and tying wealth to Kingdom impact. 

Q3: Should Christians invest in the stock market? 

Yes, if done wisely and ethically. Avoid industries that conflict with biblical values. Long-term, diversified investing is consistent with stewardship. 

Q4: How much wealth is “too much” for a Christian? 

There is no universal number. It depends on whether wealth serves God’s Kingdom or becomes an idol. 

Article supplied with thanks to Wealth with Purpose.

About the Author: Alex is a licensed financial planner and the founder of Wealth with Purpose a Stewardship Ministry that helps Christians handle their money God’s way.

Feature image: Canva

In the late 1980s, Donald Trump was asked how much money it would take to make him happy. His answer? “Ten per cent more.” 

The human heart has long been prone to believe the lie that just a little bit more will finally make us happy. In this pursuit of happiness, many of us find ourselves on what psychologists call the hedonic treadmill—the tendency to quickly return to a baseline of happiness despite gains in income or possessions. We get a raise, buy a new gadget, take a holiday and experience a rush of joy or excitement. But before long, that feeling fades and we’re once again chasing “one more thing.” This cycle not only keeps us from being content with what we have but often also makes us less inclined to be generous towards others.  

When I was in my early twenties, I spent some time travelling through Asia. My heart broke as I came face-to-face with women nursing children on street corners while begging for food; orphans mistreated by their carers; refugees locked behind barbed wire and gun posts. I returned to Australia thinking I’d get a good career and live a minimalistic life so I could better help people such as these. But over time, I got busy and the weight of what I’d seen waned. I became more flippant with my expenses and found ways to justify my purchases and reduce how much I gave away. And it pains me to admit this—especially when I consider the millions of people around the world who are hungry, sick, unemployed, lonely, homeless or in danger.

Putting Things Into Perspective

Most of us wouldn’t consider ourselves rich. But when we zoom out, we’re among the wealthiest, most privileged people on earth. The latest Global Wealth Report found that Australia is comfortably one of the richest countries in the world. In 2023, average wealth per adult increased by nearly 10 per cent—more than twice the growth rate of 56 other countries. That makes Australia the second-ranked nation in terms of median wealth behind Luxembourg, and fifth in terms of average wealth. In the United States, the poorest 20 per cent of individuals consume between three to 30 times more goods and services than the average person in developing nations.

Meanwhile, around the world, 50 per cent of child deaths are linked to hunger, and 35 per cent of the global population can’t afford a nutritious diet. Then there are the many who are fleeing war-torn countries with nowhere to go. Others live without clean water, without family, are victims of human trafficking and sexual exploitation, or are dying from injuries or sickness that, where we live, could be treated with ease. 

Most of us are grappling with the rising costs of living, but I’d argue that much of what we label “necessities” are often still luxuries. Smartphones, subscriptions, beverages, beauty services, house plants, door mats, fancy tins of tuna . . . I could go on.

I don’t want to paint the picture that we’re failing terribly. We’re not. The United States, New Zealand and Australia are actually considered the top five most generous countries.

But when I look around, there are still so many people living over their capacity, not under it. Seven in ten Australians make purchases with buy-now-pay-later options, and just short of half live paycheck to paycheck. And I plead guilty. I know I could be wiser with my money for the sake of helping others. But I am often swayed by the myth of more.

The Fault In Our Thinking

Thousands of years ago, the writer of the book of Ecclesiastes said, “Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income” (5:10). We tell ourselves more money and things will bring contentment, joy, peace and freedom. But the opposite is true. The more we acquire, the more we worry, the more we obsess, and the more anxious and dissatisfied we typically become.

Experts say we see around 100 advertisements a day, all of which are designed to override our rational minds and appeal to our subconscious fears and desires. But even before we had the media in our face, humans have been prone to think  like Trump:  just a little bit more, then I’ll be happy. Most of us never quite arrive there. The ancient proverb rings true: wealth is a liar. It promises what it cannot give. “For riches certainly make themselves wings, they fly away like an eagle toward heaven” (Proverbs 23:5).

Happiness Is Found In Giving

Research continues to affirm the teachings of Jesus that claim happiness is found in a life of giving (Acts 20:35). In the book The Paradox of Generosity, sociologists said, “People rightly say that money cannot buy happiness. But money and happiness are still related in a curious way. Happiness can be the result, not of spending more money on oneself, but rather of giving money away to others.” 

Studies show that generous people are healthier, less stressed, have higher life expectancy, stronger immune systems, lower blood pressure, are more interested in personal growth and have stronger relationships.1 Sonja Lyubomirsky, a pioneer in happiness research from Stanford University, found that acts of kindness can even alter gene expression—activating DNA in ways that reduce inflammation and improve health.2In other words, if you want to be a happier, healthier person, it helps to shift your focus outward. 

Where To From Here?

We often think of “the poor” as those in extreme poverty, which raises complex societal questions about mental illness, addiction, and broken systems. But in the Bible, one of the definitions for “the poor” is “those who have need.”3 Who around you has a need that you could help meet? Maybe it’s a meal, a room, a car repair or a bill that needs paying. If nothing comes to mind, take some time to research organisations or individuals who are doing work around the world that you feel drawn to support.   

For those of you who are truly scraping the barrel to get by, there are ways you can extend generosity that don’t require money: your time, kindness, influence or possessions.

Living a generous life requires intentionality and planning. That might mean setting limits on your spendings, giving something up, or regularly setting aside a portion of your income or time to bless others.

As Saint John Chrysostom, Bishop of Constantinople, once said, “[We] must use [our] wealth to the good of all the people around [us] . . . this is the hardest skill of all. It requires both great wisdom and moral strength. Look at how many rich people fail to acquire it and how few practice it to perfection.”

For Me and For You

This article is a reminder to myself as much as I hope it’s an encouragement to you. It’s so easy for us to rationalise our expenses as essential to our well-being and personal comfort. To get caught up adorning our homes, travelling the world, adding to our wardrobes, and splurging on wish list items.

But may we remember that there’s a world of people in need. May we learn when to draw a line in the sand and say, “Enough is enough—I have all that I need.” And may we remember that living generously won’t leave us on the short end of an unequal bargain. Rather, it will give us what we most deeply desire: purpose, happiness, and health. Things money can’t buy.

Article supplied with thanks to Sign of the Times Magazine.

About the Author: Zanita Fletcher is a life coach and assistant editor for the Australia/New Zealand edition of Signs of the Times. She writes from the Gold Coast, Queensland.

Feature image: Canva