Should Christians pursue Financial Success?
Why or Why not?
I first want to point out that this can be up for debate all depending on what your thoughts are, but there are specific qualifications that go in the “no” category and many for the “yes”. So many differences that can affect your answer. Do you live in Hollywood where success is mandatory to be able to live because everything is so expensive? Or do you live in the suburbs of Chicago where you are struggling with money and getting a solid job? I do not think about this subject lightly because as christians we should strive to live a life that is honoring to the Lord and serve Him with what He gives us and that includes using what He gives us for His glory. I also want to say that I am continually wanting to see where my money is going. My needs or my wants? Examine yourself and see whether you use your financial blessings for only yourself and take full advantage of a gift from God.
The No Answer
I will hypothetically side with the people who say no and I will explain why they might say no. The biggest reason is that they fully believe that God will provide and that they do not need to have any actions in life.
This is a wrong way to look at this, because we are told not to be lazy, which would mean get a job and be active in life and so you will get money.
Some think that this money will become an idol and I see that this is a better answer.
1 Timothy 6:10 says that “the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil”. As I write this, the largest fires in California's history rage and burn home after home. This is a great reminder that the love of physical treasures is exactly why Jesus tells us to store treasures up in Heaven. Does this mean someone should not own anything? No, it just means use wisdom with what you buy,and you should loosely hold purchases of frivolous money spending.
I truly believe no is the wrong answer because of what the “yes” answer brings.
The Yes Answer
Christians are not expected to completely disregard financial reasons when making decisions, as the Bible encourages responsible stewardship of money, including saving for the future and making wise financial choices, while still prioritizing spiritual values and not letting money become an idol in their lives; essentially, they should not let financial concerns solely drive their actions to the point of neglecting other important aspects of life or Christian principles.
So what does this mean? This means as believers our answer should be striving to live a life that glorifies God in what he has provided us with.
Points of importance to a believer that serves God, not two masters.
Stewardship:
The Bible teaches that Christians are stewards of the resources God provides, including money, meaning they should manage their finances wisely. This money is a blessing from God and should be treated as such. Respect the fact that God has blessed you to live a peaceful and quiet lives by providing the means to live as a family that is not worried about money and clothes everyday.
Avoiding Greed:
While pursuing financial stability is acceptable, Christians are cautioned against greed and prioritizing wealth above all else. We cannot serve two masters! You need to guard your heart against mankind's money, an important necessity in your life. It cannot be your utmost important, because God should be that.
Key signs that money might be an idol:
A Christian can tell that money has become an idol when their thoughts and actions are primarily focused on acquiring and accumulating wealth, prioritizing it above their relationship with God, experiencing anxiety when they don't have enough, and neglecting other important areas of life like relationships and spiritual practices in pursuit of more money; essentially, when money becomes the driving force in their life rather than a tool to be used responsibly
Constant preoccupation with money:
When your thoughts frequently revolve around earning, saving, or spending money, even when not actively engaged in financial activities. Is it the only thing you think about? Is every purchase a stressful decision even a normal grocery trip where you know that you could spend one hundred dollars? Are you then going to cut something off your list even though everything you have is an essential in life?
Fear of not having enough:
Feeling excessive anxiety about potential financial hardship, even when you have a stable income. Do you have stress when something like a hospital visit comes up unexpectedly? Do you not trust in OGd by taking everything into your own hands?
Prioritizing material possessions over needs:
Focusing on acquiring expensive items or a lavish lifestyle as a measure of success. Do you have the best and biggest tv? The best house, car, and decorations?
Neglecting spiritual practices:
Spending less time in prayer, Bible study, or church attendance due to the pursuit of wealth. Does money and jobs take away from spending time with Christians, and the church? Does your great highest paying job take you away from church every single sunday?
Guilt about spending on others:
Feeling hesitant to give generously to charity or support loved ones financially. Will you not spend one dollar on someone aside from yourself? Do you get mad when you do not get your one dollar discount?
Defining self-worth by wealth:
Basing your sense of value on your net worth or income level. Are you worried about how people look at you? Do you worry about how the internet portrays you?
The last two reasons Christians should pursue financial success.
Giving to the Needy:
The Bible emphasizes the importance of generosity and sharing with those in need.
Use what God blesses you with to use some to return to those who are less fortunate.
Balancing Needs and Wants:
Christians should differentiate between necessary expenses and unnecessary luxuries, prioritizing basic needs while being mindful of spending habits.
Conclusion
As stewards that want to glorify God, I see that we should strive to pursue financial success because of what the scripture says regarding this topic. According to the Bible, being a good steward of money as a Christian means managing your finances responsibly, recognizing that all wealth comes from God, and using your money wisely to provide for your needs, support others, and glorify Him, which often includes practices like tithing, living within your means, avoiding debt, and being generous to those in need.
Key points about biblical stewardship of money for Christians.
Everything belongs to God:
The Bible teaches that all possessions, including money, ultimately belong to God, making us stewards rather than owners. This means that we should care for what the lord has blessed us with.
Responsibility to manage wisely:
Christians are called to manage their finances with care and prudence, avoiding reckless spending and unnecessary debt. I will get into debt in another article, but we need to use wisdom and always trust in the sovereignty of God.
Tithing:
The Old Testament practice of tithing (giving 10% of one's income to the church) is often considered a foundational principle of Christian stewardship, though interpretations vary. This is an intrusion that is given to further Christ's Kingdom.
Generosity:
Beyond tithing, the Bible encourages Christians to be generous in giving to those in need, supporting charitable causes, and sharing their blessings. Give to the needy, those who are less fortunate, and those who are struggling by using what the lord has given to support others.
Contentment:
The Bible emphasizes the importance of being content with what one has, avoiding the pursuit of wealth as a primary focus.
Use the money that the Lord gives you with wisdom and with a striving to serve the Lord with all the provisions that He gives and blesses us with on this earth.
