Tags: Proverbs financial principles, biblical money management, Christian financial planning, King James Bible wealth wisdom
In a world where debt is normal, instant gratification is king, and money often becomes a master instead of a servant, the timeless truths of God’s Word stand as a beacon of wisdom for anyone who desires to handle their finances in a way that honors the Lord. Among the sixty-six books of the Bible, the book of Proverbs shines as a practical manual for daily living — and yes, that includes money matters too.
Today, let us look deeply into The Proverbs Principle — how the book of Proverbs, written under divine inspiration, gives us clear, actionable steps to plan our finances wisely. We shall open the pages of the King James Bible (KJV) and see how these ancient yet ever-relevant truths can guide our stewardship in the modern age.
1. Wisdom is the Principal Thing
“Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom: and with all thy getting get understanding.” — Proverbs 4:7 KJV
No budget plan, investment strategy, or debt reduction method will stand if it is not built upon wisdom. Proverbs is clear: before you manage money, you must manage your mind.
God’s people should seek wisdom more than wealth. The world chases riches first and hopes to gain sense later, but Scripture reverses that order. Wisdom must come first, for it governs how wealth is gained, used, and multiplied.
Pray for wisdom daily. Read the Bible daily. Seek counsel from godly men and women. Before you sign any loan, open any business, or make any purchase, pause — ask, “Is this wise according to God’s Word?”
2. Honesty and Integrity in Every Peso
“A false balance is abomination to the LORD: but a just weight is his delight.” — Proverbs 11:1 KJV
Financial planning is not only about how much you make but how you make it. Dishonesty, fraud, cheating taxes, or shady deals may bring temporary gain but will surely invite God’s judgment and ruin your testimony.
As a CPA, I have seen that shortcuts and under-the-table transactions always cost more in the end. For the believer, every peso earned must be clean and transparent. Live in such a way that your books, receipts, and bank statements can be opened before the Lord — because one day they will be.
3. Hard Work and Diligence Build Wealth
“He becometh poor that dealeth with a slack hand: but the hand of the diligent maketh rich.” — Proverbs 10:4 KJV
God blesses diligent hands. Proverbs abounds with warnings against laziness and encouragements to industry. The ant, tiny yet tireless, is set as an example: it labors in summer to gather food for winter.
In financial planning, diligence means more than just working hard at your job. It means keeping a close eye on your expenses, saving wisely, learning new skills, and avoiding the trap of idleness or wasteful habits.
God’s people should be known as the hardest workers in the company or the most reliable business owners in the community. Not for man’s applause but for the Master’s praise.
4. Live Below Your Means — Save and Prepare
“There is treasure to be desired and oil in the dwelling of the wise; but a foolish man spendeth it up.” — Proverbs 21:20 KJV
This simple yet sharp proverb cuts through impulsive spending. The wise keep margin; they don’t spend every peso they earn. They save for a rainy day, prepare for lean seasons, and plan ahead for family needs.
Many Christians struggle financially not because they don’t earn enough but because they spend unwisely. Keeping up with trends, gadgets, or social status drains the wallet and robs peace of mind.
The Proverbs Principle calls us to a life of contentment. Learn to say, “I don’t need this now.” Build up your storehouse gradually. Avoid debt traps and quick loans. Practice delayed gratification — a biblical virtue seldom taught in our instant society.
5. Honor the Lord with Your Substance
“Honour the LORD with thy substance, and with the firstfruits of all thine increase:” — Proverbs 3:9 KJV
At the core of biblical financial planning is the truth that everything we have belongs to God. He owns it all. We are mere stewards.
The first priority of every financial plan should be to honor God — through tithes, offerings, missions giving, or helping brethren in need. When you put God first, He promises to supply your needs in ways the world can’t explain.
This is not prosperity gospel. It is priority gospel. You honor God, and He takes care of you.
6. Avoid Debt — Be Not a Slave to the Lender
“The rich ruleth over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.” — Proverbs 22:7 KJV
Modern society normalizes debt. Credit cards, loans, and “buy now, pay later” plans keep families in chains for decades. The Proverbs Principle calls us back to freedom. Debt makes you a servant — your choices are controlled by the next payment due.
Of course, some debt may be necessary (such as wisely-managed business capital), but borrowing for wants instead of needs, or to impress others, is financial foolishness.
If you are already burdened with debt, make it your plan to pay it down faithfully. Cut unnecessary expenses. Increase income where possible. Pray for God’s wisdom and strength — freedom is possible when you follow His ways.
7. Seek Counsel — Don’t Plan Alone
“Without counsel purposes are disappointed: but in the multitude of counsellors they are established.” — Proverbs 15:22 KJV
Many people ruin their finances because they refuse to ask for help. Proverbs urges us to seek godly counsel. Find a trusted pastor, a Christian financial advisor, or mature believers who can guide you through big decisions.
The Proverbs Principle reminds us that no one is so wise they don’t need counsel. Humbly listen, weigh advice against Scripture, and pray for discernment.
8. Generosity is Part of Godly Wealth
“He that hath pity upon the poor lendeth unto the LORD; and that which he hath given will he pay him again.” — Proverbs 19:17 KJV
A heart of compassion must accompany a disciplined budget. It’s not about hoarding wealth but using it as a channel of blessing. God sees your giving to the poor, the widows, the orphans, the missionaries. He promises to repay — often in ways far beyond financial return.
Generosity protects the heart from greed and reminds us that riches are temporary but good works last forever.
Final Thoughts: Walk in the Fear of the Lord
At the foundation of all these principles is one core truth:
“The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom: and the knowledge of the holy is understanding.” — Proverbs 9:10 KJV
Financial planning for a Christian is not just about spreadsheets and bank accounts — it is about walking in the fear of the Lord daily. It is about making every financial decision in light of eternity.
Your house, car, gadgets, and investments will all fade. But your stewardship will be judged at the Judgment Seat of Christ. Make it your prayer that you will hear, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.”
Start Today
If your finances feel like a mess, don’t lose hope. Open your Bible to Proverbs. Read a chapter each day. Pray for wisdom. Seek godly counsel. Take small steps — make a budget, cut unnecessary spending, honor the Lord first, and trust Him to provide.
The Proverbs Principle works because it is God’s Word. It worked thousands of years ago in the Middle East. It works today in the Philippines. It works anywhere because truth never changes.
May we, as Bible-believing Baptists, stand out as faithful stewards, honest workers, generous givers, and wise planners — all for the glory of God.
Learn more biblical insights at www.cpadavao.com and strengthen your walk with the King James Bible every day!
0 Comments