By: C.J. Lloyd June 14, 2024

Our modern world is flooded with rhetorical statements and questions such as “You only live once” or “What if today was your last day?” These statements are often used to convince us to make quick decisions for short-term gain. By contrast, as Christians living in a material world, we are warned about storing treasures on Earth. “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on Earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:19-21 NASB20). 

This leads to the question, what is the point of investing while we are on Earth if we are not supposed to store treasures in earthly materials? When we invest, are we not just storing more treasure on Earth?

There are three biblical principles that not only support earthly investing but also guide our approach to putting our money to work in the modern world: stewardship, provision for family, and generosity.

Understanding the principle of stewardship is not just crucial, but it’s a key to unlocking the wisdom of the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30). In this parable, Jesus teaches about using one’s abilities and spiritual gifts for Kingdom purposes, a lesson that applies not only to spiritual gifting but also to the resources He entrusts to us. When we read this parable, we see that the servants who used what they were given to generate a return were praised and exalted.  The servant who expended no effort to generate a return and claimed to be fearful was reprimanded for being worthless and lazy. This example underscores the importance of responsible financial stewardship, empowering us to be bold and make wise investment decisions.

Another key principle is providing for one’s family. 1 Timothy 5:8 states, “But if anyone does not provide for his own, and especially for those of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.” This principle gives us the permission and duty to use our time and financial resources to ensure the well-being of the people we love.

The first two principles can lead to potential financial well-being, but they also increase the possibility of giving and serving generously. “For you were called to freedom, brothers, and sisters; only do not turn your freedom into an opportunity for the flesh, but serve one another through love” (Galatians 5:13 NASB20).

While some biblical principles may not appear straightforward, we must discern and faithfully apply them in our lives. This week, let’s recommit to prayerful consideration, seeking God’s discernment over the principles He has given us. Through prayer and seeking His guidance, we can trust that God will reveal His plan for us and provide the wisdom to understand and follow His will with the gifts He has entrusted us with.