Money Makes The World Go Round, or so the saying goes. While this phrase often carries a cynical connotation, it highlights a fundamental truth: money plays a crucial role in our lives and reveals our priorities. How we acquire, spend, and save our money often reflects what we truly value. This article delves into the biblical perspective on wealth and challenges us to examine our financial priorities in light of our faith.
Honoring God with Our Wealth
The Book of Proverbs offers timeless wisdom regarding our relationship with money: “Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the first fruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine” (Proverbs 3:9-10). This verse doesn’t suggest that financial prosperity is guaranteed simply by giving, but rather that honoring God with our resources demonstrates proper stewardship and acknowledges Him as the ultimate provider.
We often allocate our finances towards things we deem important: vacations, retirement, our children’s future, entertainment. While these are not inherently wrong, they prompt us to consider: What truly holds the place of honor in our lives? What do our spending habits reveal about our core beliefs?
The Old Testament provides a powerful example in Deuteronomy 26:1-11. Upon entering the Promised Land, the Israelites were instructed to offer the first fruits of their harvest to God. This act symbolized their recognition of God’s provision and their dependence on Him for their sustenance. It was an acknowledgement that all good things come from Him.
The True Riches in Christ
For Christians, this principle takes on a deeper meaning. We have been blessed with “every spiritual blessing in the heavenly places” (Ephesians 1:3) through Christ. Our financial resources, therefore, should reflect this understanding. Do our spending habits demonstrate gratitude for God’s grace and provision? Do we prioritize giving back to Him and supporting His work?
When we prioritize God in our finances, we’re not adhering to a “get rich quick” scheme. Instead, we’re echoing the principle of faithfulness described in Matthew 25:21: “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much.” This speaks to the importance of stewardship and recognizing that everything we have ultimately belongs to God.
Reflecting on Our Financial Priorities
So, how do we ensure our financial lives align with our faith? Consider these questions:
-
What do your monthly expenses reveal about your true values? (Matthew 6:21) Where does your money go? Does it reflect your priorities as a follower of Christ?
-
Meditate on the immeasurable riches you have in Christ. (2 Corinthians 8:9) This perspective shifts our focus from earthly possessions to eternal treasures.
-
How can you practically demonstrate that Christ is your ultimate provider? This might involve tithing, giving to those in need, or supporting ministries that advance the Gospel.
Ultimately, money makes the world go round in the sense that it influences our choices and reveals our hearts. By aligning our financial priorities with God’s Word, we can ensure that our resources are used for His glory and the advancement of His Kingdom. This isn’t just about financial prosperity; it’s about living a life of faithfulness and gratitude, recognizing that true wealth is found in Christ alone.
