Tags: money is a tool, biblical view of wealth, stewardship, KJV teaching, money master or servant, contentment, giving, financial freedom in Christ
In a world driven by materialism, financial ambition, and the constant pursuit of wealth, we must ask ourselves: Who is the master and who is the servant? Money, if not put in its proper place, can become a ruthless taskmaster. But in the hands of a wise and godly Christian, it becomes a faithful servant—a powerful tool to fulfill God’s purpose.
The biblical principle is clear: money is just a tool. It should never be the object of our affection or devotion. As believers, we are called not to be slaves to money, but to rule over it as wise stewards under God.
The Words of Christ: You Cannot Serve Two Masters
Let us begin with the words of the Lord Jesus Christ:
"No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon."
Matthew 6:24 KJV
Here, "mammon" refers to riches or wealth. Christ draws a clear line: a man cannot have two masters. If money becomes your master, God is dethroned from His rightful place in your heart.
This teaching is especially relevant today as people chase after luxury, status symbols, and financial security with reckless abandon. But Jesus tells us that the pursuit of wealth is not compatible with true discipleship unless wealth is subordinated to God’s will.
Money Is a Tool, Not an Idol
Money itself is not evil. In fact, it is a morally neutral instrument. It can be used to support missions, build churches, feed the poor, educate children, and provide for families. However, when money becomes the object of lust, love, and longing, it ceases to be a tool and becomes an idol.
The Apostle Paul gives a serious warning:
"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."
1 Timothy 6:10 KJV
Notice: it is not money, but the love of money that is the root of all evil. Loving money leads to covetousness, dishonesty, broken relationships, and spiritual ruin.
To avoid this, we must learn to control money before it controls us.
Biblical Stewardship: Faithful Over Little, Ruler Over Much
As Christians, we are called to be stewards of God’s resources. Everything we possess is entrusted to us by God. From the talents we have to the income we earn, it all belongs to the Lord.
"Moreover it is required in stewards, that a man be found faithful."
1 Corinthians 4:2 KJV
We do not own anything—we manage what God has given us. That means we must spend, give, save, and invest in ways that align with God’s will.
Useful resources on Christian stewardship:
These ministries provide practical guidance on budgeting, tithing, debt management, and generosity from a biblical perspective.
Rejecting the Lust for More
The lust for more—more wealth, more luxury, more applause—can destroy a Christian’s walk with God. The book of Proverbs warns:
"Labour not to be rich: cease from thine own wisdom."
Proverbs 23:4 KJV
When we pursue riches for their own sake, we invite destruction into our lives. The world says, "Get rich or die trying," but the Bible says, "Be content and trust in God."
"Let your conversation be without covetousness; and be content with such things as ye have: for he hath said, I will never leave thee, nor forsake thee."
Hebrews 13:5 KJV
God’s presence is more valuable than any paycheck. If you have Christ, you have enough.
Giving: The Antidote to Greed
One of the most powerful ways to keep money in its proper place is to give it away. Generosity breaks the grip of greed. It declares that our trust is not in riches, but in the God who provides.
"But this I say, He which soweth sparingly shall reap also sparingly; and he which soweth bountifully shall reap also bountifully."
2 Corinthians 9:6 KJV
Giving does not diminish wealth; it sanctifies it. When we give to the local church, to missions, to the poor, and to gospel ministries, we store up treasure in heaven.
"Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth... But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven... For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."
Matthew 6:19-21 KJV
Christian giving is not just financial; it is spiritual. It proves that God, not money, is the Lord of our lives.
Biblical Contentment: The Key to Peace
The world is restless. People climb the ladder of success only to find it leaning against the wrong wall. But the believer has a secret weapon: contentment.
"But godliness with contentment is great gain."
1 Timothy 6:6 KJV
Contentment doesn’t mean laziness or lack of ambition. It means recognizing that all we truly need is found in Christ. It means being satisfied with God’s provision and not craving what others have.
"Better is little with the fear of the LORD than great treasure and trouble therewith."
Proverbs 15:16 KJV
Wealth Without Wisdom: A Dangerous Combination
Having money without the wisdom to manage it is dangerous. The book of Ecclesiastes, written by Solomon—the richest and wisest king—offers sobering insight:
"He that loveth silver shall not be satisfied with silver; nor he that loveth abundance with increase: this is also vanity."
Ecclesiastes 5:10 KJV
Solomon had everything, yet concluded that without God, it was all meaningless. Wealth cannot buy joy, peace, or eternal life.
Money Cannot Buy the Most Important Things
Money can buy:
- A house, but not a home
- A bed, but not sleep
- Companions, but not friends
- Medicine, but not health
- Luxury, but not joy
"For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?"
Mark 8:36 KJV
Heaven is not for sale. Salvation is not earned by riches but given freely through Christ.
Financial Freedom in Christ
True financial freedom is not about having more money—it is about having the right master. When Christ is Lord, everything else falls into place. When money is mastered, it becomes a powerful tool for good.
"But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus."
Philippians 4:19 KJV
Practical Tips for Mastering Money
- Tithe Faithfully
Give at least 10% to your local church as a sign of obedience and gratitude.
- Budget Wisely
Plan your spending. Don’t let money disappear without a purpose.
- Avoid Debt
The borrower is servant to the lender. Avoid unnecessary loans.
- Save Diligently
Saving is biblical (Proverbs 21:20 KJV) and wise.
- Invest Eternally
Give to missions, help others, support your church.
- Be Content
Don’t compare yourself with others. Trust God’s provision.
- Teach Your Children
Instill biblical financial principles in the next generation.
Conclusion: Use Money, Don’t Worship It
Christian, remember: money is a tool, not a god. Use it to glorify God. Use it to love your neighbor. Use it to advance the gospel. Let it be your servant—not your master.
"Where your treasure is, there will your heart be also."
Matthew 6:21 KJV
Let your heart be fixed on Christ, and your money will follow.
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