4 Biblical Principles About Money

by Raymund Tamayo

The Bible says a lot of things about money.

But the heart of the matter is this: money can become something that rules over our lives. It can become an idol easily. 

God's desire is for us to have a full life, abundant in all areas - physically, mentally, emotionally, vocationally, socially, financially, and of course, spiritually. 

He knows worshiping money will prevent us from having the best life.

The Most Powerful Idol?

From the seduction of success to the lure of lust, many things in this world will vie for your affection and devotion. But perhaps the most powerful idol you will face is money (Matt. 6:24).

“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

Consider these biblical facts about money: 

• 16 out of 38 of Jesus’ parables deal with money and possessions
• Nearly 25% of Jesus’ words in the New Testament deal with biblical stewardship
• 1 out of 10 verses in the Gospels deal with money
• There are more than 2,000 scriptures on tithing, money, and possessions in the Bible, which is twice as many as faith and prayer combined

Bible verses about money are frequently used because there’s a direct correlation between the way we handle our money and our faith.

Here are four biblical principles about money we all should learn:

1. God owns everything

“Now therefore, if you will indeed obey my voice and keep my covenant, you shall be my treasured possession among all peoples, for all the earth is mine.” – Exodus 19:5

At the end of the day, no matter how much we accumulate financially, we are only stewards of what God allows us to earn while here on earth. He created the universe, and he created us, humans.

When our physical bodies die and it is time for our spirits to go back to Him, we wouldn't be able to bring any money or physical possession with us.

Since God owns everything on earth, it also Him who gives us the ability to gain wealth.

“But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today.” – Deuteronomy 8:18

Our craftiness, skills, wisdom, resourcefulness, and physical strength all came from our Creator. Without these gifts, we wouldn't be able to earn our living.

2. Love of money is the root of all evil 

“For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.” – 1 Timothy 6:10

This is one of the most misunderstood verses in the Bible. Money per se is not evil. It is only a tool to enable us to have a comfortable and happy life. 

However, the love of money, that one, causes all evil.

If we develop affection towards money, to the point we are willing to do anything to acquire it, then we have a problem.

Let’s not put money on top of God, our relationships, and our values. Money is good, but the love of money is the exact opposite.

We can have earthly financial security but still love and worship God above all and everything.

3. Earn honestly 

“And whatever you do, whether in word or deed, do it all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” – Colossians 3:17

Earn money the right way, without cheating, without stepping on anyone else.

Earn your living without harming other people, without hurting or putting others down.

Earn without damaging your own character and honor.

Good success is when we attain it without forsaking our godly values and principles. Bad success is when we gain it at the expense of others. 

4. Be generous

“But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him? Little children, let us not love in word or talk but in deed and in truth.” – 1 John 3:17-18

Sharing what we have been so graciously given is foundational for a true follower of Christ.

Although sharing and contributing is not only about money, it all starts with money.

Being generous is not primarily about money. It is about God's own generous nature. How He gave us everything - from His Son Jesus for our salvation, to our everyday needs.

We should also be generous to show gratitude for all we have but do not deserve.

Final Notes

These are just some of the many biblical principles about money. As you learn these eternal principles, you will eventually know the joy that comes from trusting and obeying God. Shalom!