Lasting Treasures: Biblical Financial Wisdom for Familiesಮಾದರಿ

The Heart of the Matter - Our Relationship with Money

Reflection

The Bible speaks more about money than about faith, heaven, or hell combined. Sixteen of Jesus's thirty-eight parables address our relationship with money.

Why does God place such emphasis on our relationship with money? Likely because our financial dealings reveal what we truly value and trust. Earning money itself isn't problematic—it can be legitimate and beneficial. However, money is like a chameleon, taking on the character of the person holding it. When someone loves money so deeply that they view everything through a selfish, greedy lens, it becomes another form of idolatry.

The Bible in 1 Timothy 6:10 says, "The love of money is a root of all kinds of evil." The phrase all kinds of evil here is what makes this statement definite.

We forget that money is a human creation. And we must understand that forgetting God as our source can breed idolatry.

When men and women fall under the spell of money and cease to question its tyrannical hold on all human thinking, then they become possessed by an idol - the god Jesus referred to as Mammon. Therefore, Jesus commands, "No one can serve two masters... You cannot serve both God and Mammon." Materialism is gaining one's identity, security and dignity in the abundance of material possessions. Jesus warns against this worldview in Luke 12:15.

“Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” - Jesus

We are living in a time when the temptation to adopt a materialistic worldview is easier. However, Biblical truths can free us from the pressures of materialism. Paul says in Romans 12:2 "Don't let the world around you squeeze you into its mold" (J.B. Philips). Discontentment, greed and Me-ism are reflections of this world system. In today's world, many people are increasingly putting their trust in digital investments like Bitcoin or cryptocurrency, believing these offer greater security for their future. Yet even these modern financial innovations can be fatally flawed investments if they aren't balanced with Kingdom priorities. When Jesus speaks of storing treasures in heaven rather than on earth, He reminds us that all earthly investments—whether traditional currency, digital assets, property, or possessions—are ultimately vulnerable. Only what is invested in God's Kingdom has eternal security. Consider how this perspective might reshape your approach to all forms of wealth and investment. We can combat it by practicing the Kingdom principles which we will discuss in the next four days.

Respond

• Where is your "treasure" currently stored? What occupies your financial thoughts and energy?
• In what areas of your financial life might you be trying to serve two masters?
• How might your financial decisions be influencing your relationship with God?
• What does it mean that Jesus is "Lord of your family finances"?
• If you invest in cryptocurrencies or other modern financial products, how do you balance these investments with Kingdom priorities?

Reach out to God

Lord, I confess that I often struggle with making You the true Lord of my finances. Help me to see where my treasure is and align my heart with Your Kingdom values. Open my eyes to areas where money has too much influence in my life. Give me the wisdom to make financial decisions that honor You.

Reinforce

Write down one concrete step you can take this week to bring your finances more in line with your faith. This might be creating a budget that prioritizes giving, examining a recurring expense that doesn't align with your values, or having an honest conversation with your family about money.