What do you think of when you hear the word “money?” Some people envision casinos with dancing dollar signs; others see stocks, bonds, and investments. Some think of struggling to save or pay the bills. The biblically correct way to think about money is to consider God before doing anything with it.

We’ve all learned the value of money, and the importance of having enough of it to live comfortably. The world around us puts a high priority on it. We learn to manage it to the best of our abilities, but without a Christian viewpoint, we miss some vital information that leads to true wealth and prosperity.

It’s important not to cultivate the wrong kind of relationship with money. “For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows” (1Timothy 6:10). God knows we need money to operate in this physical world, and He promises we’ll see it when we keep it in its proper perspective in our lives. “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33). Wealth is just a tool, but what’s really important is using it to bless others.

When money comes to us, we must remember not to take all the credit for any financial success we experience. It’s easy to forget Who is ultimately responsible for it. “And thou say in thine heart, My power and the might of mine hand hath gotten me this wealth. But thou shalt remember the Lord thy God: for it is he that giveth thee power to get wealth, that he may establish his covenant which he sware unto thy fathers, as it is this day” (Deuteronomy 8:17, 18). We must keep a humble attitude toward this financial resource.

We shouldn’t be fooled by the prospect of “easy money,” or underestimate the positive difference a good work ethic can make in our finances. “Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth” (Proverbs 10:4, NIV). Biblical money management includes a willingness to put in an honest day’s work. God rewards diligence in this area in ways we can readily understand.

God is a giver. He loves us so much that He gave us His only Son (John 3:16). When we realize just how much He gave because of this great love for us, something happens inside us that makes us want to give back. “Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the firstfruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine” (Proverbs 3:9, 10, NIV). Honoring Him with the best of what we receive is one way to give to the kingdom of God.

When we’re careful not to shut Him out of our financial decisions, we experience financial blessings. Greed and self-centeredness block those blessings. Therefore, our attitude about money determines whether we stay in lack, or experience the abundance that God wants for us.

Copyright © Creflo Dollar Ministries/World Changers Church International
All rights reserved. Used by permission.