No, not pork or by someone who lives ‘high on the hog.’ … Instead, we’ll address biblical finances. Money. Cheddar. Cash. Bread. Bucks. Bacon. Everyone needs it; some worship it. One person’s financial tool can be another’s heart-directed treasure (Matthew 6:21). Nonetheless, the Bible offers guidance on money management and where to direct wealth (see my recent column “The Tithe: Religion Over Love!”). What does God want here?
Obedience over sacrifice. Love MUST trump religion. God said, “to obey is better than sacrifice” (1 Samuel 15:22; Matthew 9:13). Obey what? Minimally, to honor God in all things and to be charitable (e.g., Matthew 22:34-40). 1 John 3:17 teaches that God’s love is not in those who ignore others’ needs. Their end will be eternal destruction (e.g., Matthew 25:31-46). “But, Ron: Doesn’t tithing to the church count?” Not necessarily.
There was no New Testament tithe until Constantine reinstituted it in the fourth century to fund people and projects. Until then, church funds were collected only for charity. Paul collected funds from regional churches for the beleaguered saints in Jerusalem. Early Church father Tertullian wrote that money was collected monthly from willing donors to care for widows and orphans, not to fund a “religion that has its price.” Giving money to support church salaries and other needs doesn’t replace the “honor and love” obedience God seeks. By the way, money isn’t the only way to help our churches and others—we can also share our time and talents. So, how do we ensure there’s money to give?
Tips for financial freedom. Work hard, pay bills, avoid debt (if possible), don’t cosign for others, pay taxes, care for fellow followers of Jesus, and save. Working hard reduces the likelihood of ‘idle hands’ and mischief. Remember the ‘Ant and the Grasshopper’ story based on Proverbs 6:6-11? And there’s Paul’s lecture against slackers in Thessalonica (2 Thessalonians 3:10-11).
Borrowing creates slaves. Avoiding debt helps us keep more of what we earn. Don’t borrow unless it’s necessary (perhaps for a home). Be intentional about paying off debt as soon as possible. Similarly, the Bible teaches us never to cosign debt (Proverbs 22:26).
Paying bills and taxes is a biblical principle that, when followed, helps keep us out of trouble. Giving to others is also a non-negotiable biblical principle, as I’ve already stated. This practice demonstrates that we are Jesus’ disciples and children of God (John 13:34-35).
Finally, setting aside some of our bounty will help ensure we can weather financial downturns. Budgeting can help you achieve this and other financial goals. Oh—I almost forgot a critical piece of advice: “Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have …” (Hebrews 13:5).
In summary, use your wealth wisely to please God. Be content with what you have and prioritize charity over religion. Next, I’ll drive home the point that God is enough!
Blessings and peace,
Dr. Ron Braley (MDiv; DMin)
Equipping believers to become followers through discipleship! 