By: C.J. Lloyd November 1, 2024 

Wealth is often defined by what we own, our social standing, or the number in our bank accounts. Advertisements, social media, and societal values constantly urge us to acquire more, comparing our worth to what we possess. But in contrast, the Bible offers a radically different view of wealth—one that places less emphasis on material possessions and more on spiritual fulfillment, generosity, and purpose. Let’s explore how God’s view of abundance differs from that of our consumer-driven society and how Christians can live counter-culturally by embracing biblical stewardship.

True Wealth is Spiritual, Not Material

• Biblical wealth isn’t tied to the abundance of possessions but rather the richness of our relationship with God and others. Proverbs 3:9-10 reminds us to “honor the Lord with your wealth…then your barns will be filled to overflowing,” emphasizing that true wealth flows from honoring God.
• Jesus teaches in Matthew 6:19-21 not to store up treasures on Earth but in heaven, encouraging a focus on spiritual wealth, which lasts forever. Unlike material wealth, spiritual wealth is timeless, resilient, and bound to God’s eternal purposes.

Wealth as Stewardship

• From a biblical perspective, all we own is a gift from God, and we are entrusted to use it wisely. This means viewing wealth as a responsibility to actively manage, not just an asset to hide away for some time. Luke 12:48 reinforces this, saying, “To whom much is given, much will be required,” calling us to be careful stewards of our abundant or modest resources.

Abundance is About Sufficiency, Not Excess

• Society often defines abundance as excess—having more than we need to ensure comfort and success. Yet, God’s view of abundance is about sufficiency and contentment. Philippians 4:19 promises that God will supply our needs, emphasizing that He will provide enough. Abundance, in this sense, isn’t about storing up excess but trusting that God will provide what we need for each day.
• The story of the widow’s oil in 2 Kings 4:1-7 is a perfect example of God providing “just enough.” It teaches that our trust in God’s provision can lead us to experience sufficiency and peace, even without material excess.

Cultivating Contentment and Gratitude

• Paul shares in Philippians 4:11-13 how he learned to be content in all circumstances. True wealth, he implies, lies in contentment rather than accumulation. This mindset allows us to experience a deeper, unshakeable joy and gratitude, regardless of external circumstances. Contentment frees us from the cultural drive for more, grounding us in the peace and satisfaction that only God can give.

Generosity Over Hoarding

• In a consumer-driven world, wealth is often hoarded or used to elevate one’s status. However, the Bible teaches that wealth is a tool for blessing others. Acts 20:35 reminds us, “It is more blessed to give than to receive,” encouraging us to view resources as gifts meant to be shared.
• Practicing generosity—giving time, money, or talent—offers a powerful counter-cultural message and aligns us with God’s heart for compassion and community.

Prioritizing Relationships Over Possessions

• Scripture calls us to focus on what truly lasts: our relationship with God and others. Jesus simplifies the greatest commandments in Matthew 22:37-40, calling us to love God and our neighbors as ourselves. This love forms the core of true wealth, fostering bonds that enrich our lives and glorify God.
• Building strong, intentional relationships and investing in our communities brings wealth that possessions cannot offer. Prioritizing relationships helps us remember that we are called to serve, uplift, and walk alongside others rather than isolate ourselves with material gain.

Setting Financial and Spiritual Goals in Alignment with God’s Kingdom

• Aligning our financial and spiritual goals with biblical values is a practical way to steward resources well. This can include setting a budget that prioritizes giving, eliminating unnecessary debt, and using financial gains to bless others and further God’s purposes.
• Pursuing goals that honor God redirects our focus away from simply accumulating wealth to making a positive, lasting impact in the lives of others.
• Finding Fulfillment in God, Not in Material Wealth

Pursuing Eternal Impact Over Temporary Success

• Fulfillment comes not from accumulating temporary wealth but from living a life that reflects God’s love and purpose. 1 Timothy 6:17-19 advises us to place our hope in God rather than riches, encouraging a focus on doing good and being generous to build an eternal legacy.
• When prioritizing spiritual growth, generosity, and compassion, we invest in “treasures in heaven” that have lasting value beyond this life.

Wealth as a Tool for Kingdom Purposes

• God grants us resources to fulfill His purposes, not just to secure our comfort. When used wisely, wealth becomes a powerful tool for advancing God’s kingdom, serving others, and supporting ministries. We can make a meaningful difference through faithful stewardship, leaving a legacy that reflects God’s love and generosity.

Living with an Eternal Perspective

• By adopting an eternal perspective, we realize that our ultimate reward lies in heaven. This mindset shifts our priorities, helping us invest in spiritual riches that align with God’s heart. It allows us to detach from materialism and live with greater freedom, joy, and purpose.

In a world obsessed with wealth accumulation and material success, the Bible invites us to experience freedom by redefining wealth through stewardship, generosity, and eternal purpose. True wealth is found in a life rooted in Christ, honoring God with our resources and loving others selflessly. Let us seek to redefine wealth by investing in what truly matters, trusting in God’s provision, and living out His values in every area of our lives.