By: C.J. Lloyd January 24, 2025

Credit card rewards programs have become increasingly popular in the modern financial landscape. From cashback incentives to travel perks, these offers promise enticing benefits for everyday spending. But as stewards of God’s resources, how should we approach credit card points while avoiding the snare of debt? Let’s explore this topic through a biblical lens.

The Allure of Credit Card Points

Credit card companies design rewards programs to encourage spending. For disciplined individuals, these points can provide financial perks—like discounts on travel or additional savings—without incurring extra costs. Proverbs 21:5 reminds us, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.” Leveraging rewards responsibly aligns with diligence as long as spending is planned and purposeful.

However, the danger lies in the temptation to overspend to earn rewards. A “spend more, earn more” mindset can quickly strain finances. As Christians, we’re called to exercise self-control (Galatians 5:22-23) and avoid the pitfalls of materialism (Luke 12:15).

The Risk of Debt

Debt is one of the most significant risks associated with credit card use. While rewards programs may offer short-term benefits, carrying a balance on your card can lead to high-interest payments that outweigh any points earned. Proverbs 22:7 warns, “The borrower is the slave of the lender.” This verse highlights the spiritual and financial burden of debt, which can hinder our ability to give generously and live in economic freedom.

Credit card debt often begins innocently—a small purchase here, an unexpected expense there. But it can spiral out of control without careful budgeting and prompt repayment. Romans 13:8 encourages us to “Owe no one anything, except to love each other.” This verse underscores the importance of living within our means and avoiding unnecessary financial obligations.

Practical Steps for Wise Stewardship

To balance the benefits of credit card points with the risks of debt, consider these practical tips:

1. Pay Your Balance in Full: Always pay off your credit card balance each month to avoid interest charges. This ensures that rewards truly benefit you without financial consequences.
2. Create a Budget: Plan your spending in advance, aligning it with your income and priorities. Proverbs 27:23 advises us to “know well the condition of your flocks,” emphasizing the importance of financial oversight.
3. Avoid Impulse Purchases: Stick to your budget and resist the temptation to spend more to earn rewards. Hebrews 13:5 reminds us, “Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have.”
4. Choose the Right Card: Select a credit card that aligns with your needs and values. Look for programs that offer meaningful rewards without excessive fees or hidden costs.
5. Monitor Your Heart: Regularly evaluate your motives for using credit cards. Are you seeking to glorify God with your resources, or do material desires drive you?

Embracing a Kingdom Mindset

Ultimately, our financial decisions should reflect our commitment to God’s kingdom. Matthew 6:19-21 challenges us: “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven… For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

While credit card rewards can be helpful, they should never distract us from our higher calling as stewards of God’s resources. By managing our finances with wisdom and integrity, we can honor the Lord and experience the true riches found in Him.

Credit card points can offer financial benefits but come with inherent risks. As believers, we must approach them cautiously, ensuring our actions align with biblical principles. By exercising self-control, avoiding debt, and maintaining a kingdom-focused mindset, we can navigate the complexities of modern finance while glorifying God in all we do.