Many believe that Christianity and wealth are incompatible—that to follow Jesus, one must reject financial prosperity. However, Scripture does not call us to poverty, nor does it condemn wealth itself. Instead, it challenges us to steward wealth with purpose, ensuring that our resources align with God's mission. Wealth, when handled righteously, can be a force for Kingdom expansion, supporting those in need and creating opportunities for God’s glory to be revealed through generosity and impact.
Wealth: A Resource, Not an Idol
Money, like water, is meant to flow. It is a tool, not a measure of righteousness. Jesus warns against serving money as a master (Matthew 6:24), yet He also entrusts resources to those who will steward them well (Matthew 25:14-30). Positioning ourselves is key. As the rich man cannot pass through "the eye of the needle," referring to the narrow canyons that even packed mules cannot traverse, we must recognize that we may be called to walk away from wealth at any time. Following the Lord’s instruction is the most important thing. The invitation is not to reject wealth but to hold it loosely, allowing it to move through us to bless others.
A Kingdom Perspective on Provision
Jesus teaches us to trust in God's provision (Matthew 6:25-33). If we truly believe that God provides, we won’t cling to wealth out of fear. Instead, we will see it as a means to support others. Wealth is not limited to monetary riches—it can be measured in resources, time, and abilities. Matthew 6:26 reminds us, "Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them." Likewise, for those who trust in the Lord, provision is a promise, not a pursuit.
The Greek word for "provision" (pronoia) refers to forethought, care, and divine foresight. This reinforces that God not only supplies our needs but also equips us with what is necessary to fulfill His purposes. Proverbs 11:25 states, "A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed." Generosity is at the heart of Kingdom wealth, and trusting in God's provision allows us to give freely without fear of lack.
Stewarding Wealth with Integrity
Treat others the way you would want to be treated (Luke 6:31). If you have the ability to provide, do so freely. If you can afford your own food, don’t take from food pantries meant for those in need. Proverbs 3:27 reminds us, "Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act."
This principle is reflected in the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), where a master entrusts three servants with varying amounts of money. Two invest and bring a return, while the third, out of fear, buries his talent and produces nothing. Jesus uses this to illustrate that we are called to faithfully steward what we have been given, whether it be resources, talents, or opportunities. While some interpret this parable as a call to evangelism and soul-winning, it also reflects the responsibility to use God-given provisions wisely. Kingdom wealth should be used to bring fruit for God’s glory and serve others in need, rather than being hoarded or wasted out of fear.
The Purpose of Kingdom Wealth
Kingdom wealth is not about self-indulgence but about creating opportunities for others. The early church in Acts 4:32-35 modeled this—sharing resources so no one lacked. Paul encourages generosity, saying, "You will be enriched in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion" (2 Corinthians 9:11). Our wealth is entrusted to us so that we may be a blessing.
Jesus taught that the world would recognize His followers by their love for one another (John 13:35). Taking care of our needs in a way that allows us to serve others and reflect His love draws people toward Him. When we use our resources responsibly, ensuring that we provide for ourselves and contribute to the well-being of others, we point back to Christ as our ultimate provider.
A Heart Posture, Not a Dollar Amount
Wealth is not evil, but the love of money leads to destruction (1 Timothy 6:10). The key is detachment—recognizing that wealth is not something we can contain or obtain permanently. Instead, we must act as conduits, allowing it to flow through us as a resource from the Giver—Jesus—to those it is intended for. None of it can be taken with us. Yes, we must steward what we have well, but our posture with much must be the same as with little—contentment is key.
Final Thought
The invitation isn’t to reject wealth, but to reframe it. Wealth flows like water—freely received, freely given. It is not ours to hoard but to steward. Financial gain should not be the end goal but a tool for greater impact. We must recognize that wealth is not something we can contain or permanently obtain; rather, we are conduits, entrusted with resources to serve others and glorify God. Ecclesiastes 5:10 warns, "Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income." True security isn’t found in accumulation but in alignment with God’s will. None of it can be taken with us. Instead, we should view provision as a divine trust, meant to be used for Kingdom purposes. As we align our hearts with God’s, we will see wealth not as a means of security, but as a tool to bless others, reflect His love, and advance His Kingdom.
What will you do with what’s in your hands today?
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