How to Manage Money Biblically

Hello everyone, this is Choeun. Today, let’s explore how to manage money biblically, a topic that touches all of our lives, focusing on the essential principles of stewardship and generosity.

Understanding Stewardship

First, to effectively manage money biblically, we must understand that everything we have comes from God. We are not owners, but stewards. This means we are responsible for managing what God has entrusted to us.

• 1 Chronicles 29:14:

  “But who am I, and who are my people, that we should be able to give as generously as this? Everything comes from you, and we have given you only what comes from your hand.”

  • This verse reminds us that our resources originate from God.

• 1 Corinthians 4:2:

  “Now it is required that those who have been given a trust must prove faithful.”

  • This scripture emphasizes the importance of faithfulness in managing what we have been given.

Principles of Biblical Stewardship:

These principles are the foundational elements of how to manage money biblically in a way that honors God.

• Honesty: Conduct your financial dealings with integrity.
• Diligence: Work hard and use your talents to provide for yourself and your family.
• Budgeting: Plan your spending and avoid unnecessary debt.
• Saving: Set aside resources for future needs and emergencies.

The Heart of Generosity

A vital aspect of how to manage money biblically is understanding that it isn’t just about holding onto what we have; it’s also about cultivating a heart of giving.

• 2 Corinthians 9:7: “Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”
  • This verse highlights the importance of a joyful attitude when giving.
  • This scripture teaches us that generosity often leads to blessings.Luke 6:38: “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.”

Practical Examples:

The stories and teachings in the Bible provide numerous examples of how to manage money biblically.

• Think of the widow who gave her two small coins (Luke 21:1-4). Jesus commended her because she gave out of her poverty. It was her heart that mattered.
• Consider the early church in Acts, where believers shared their possessions to care for those in need.

Encouragement:

Managing Money Biblically: A Journey, Not a Destination

“Learning to manage money biblically is a lifelong journey. It’s not always easy, but God provides wisdom and guidance to those who seek Him.”

• Expanded Explanation: Think of it like walking a path. Sometimes the path is smooth, and sometimes it’s rocky. When it comes to money, we’ll face challenges—unexpected bills, temptations to overspend, and worries about the future. But God promises to be our guide.
• Biblical Example: Remember Solomon? He asked God for wisdom, not riches. God gave him both, but it started with seeking wisdom. (1 Kings 3:9-13) When we ask God for wisdom in managing our finances, He will provide it.
• Encouragement: Don’t be discouraged by setbacks. Every step, even a small one, in the right direction is progress. Pray for wisdom, study God’s Word, and seek advice from mature Christians.

Don’t Let the Love of Money Control You

“Don’t let the love of money control you. Instead, let your love for God guide your financial decisions.”

• Expanded Explanation: The Bible warns us that “the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil” (1 Timothy 6:10). This means that focusing on getting rich can lead us down a dangerous path. We should be focused on loving God, and letting that love shape how we use money.
• Biblical Example: Consider the rich young ruler who came to Jesus (Matthew 19:16-22). He loved his wealth so much that he couldn’t follow Jesus. His money controlled him. We need to avoid that trap.
• Encouragement: Ask yourself: “What am I living for?” If the answer is “to get rich,” then you need to refocus. Make a conscious decision to prioritize your relationship with God over money. Use money as a tool to serve God and others.

True Wealth Is Found in a Relationship with God

“Remember that true wealth is found in a relationship with God, not in material possessions.”

• Expanded Explanation: Things like cars, houses, and clothes can bring temporary happiness, but they don’t last. Real, lasting joy comes from knowing God and being in His presence.
• Biblical Example: Look at Paul’s life. He faced hardships, imprisonment, and persecution, but he found joy in his relationship with Christ (Philippians 4:11-13). He knew that his true treasure was in heaven.
• Encouragement: Invest in your relationship with God. Spend time in prayer, read the Bible, and fellowship with other believers. These are the things that will bring you true wealth and lasting satisfaction.

How to Hear God’s Voice

God Is Our Provider

“It is important to remember that God is our provider. If we are faithful with what he has given us, he will provide for our needs.”

• Expanded Explanation: God knows our needs, and He promises to provide for them. This doesn’t mean we’ll always have everything we want, but it does mean we can trust Him to take care of us.
• Biblical Example: Think about the Israelites in the wilderness. God provided them with manna every day (Exodus 16). He took care of their needs. And Jesus told us to not worry about what we will eat or wear, because God knows our needs. (Matthew 6:25-34)
• Encouragement: Be faithful in the small things. Tithe, save, and give generously. Trust that God will provide for your needs, even when things seem difficult. Remember, faithfulness is not about the amount you have, but about the heart that you have.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, as we navigate the complexities of finances, let’s remember that learning to manage money biblically through stewardship and generosity is a rewarding journey that honors God. Let’s strive to be faithful in our stewardship and generous in our giving. By doing so, we honor God and experience the blessings of a life lived according to His principles.

I hope this lesson has been helpful. May God bless you as you seek to manage your finances according to His Word.

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