I will strive to live a debt free lifestyle and manage God’s provisions wisely
In this materialistic, consumption focused culture, it is dangerously convenient to believe that money is the source of success and happiness. Extravagance is applauded, and debt is viewed as a means to our every desire. In fact, it would require a paradigm shift for most people to consider purchasing a car, or attending a university, without accruing debt.
As Christians, it can be difficult to know how to maneuver this area of our lives. To some, successfully managing finances may appear to be an entirely world-driven pursuit. When we study the Bible, however, it becomes obvious that God is not silent on this issue. In fact, more than 2,000 verses in scripture address this topic. In addition to this, we have been called to “do all for the glory of God,” and should therefore strive to please Him in this area of our lives as well. What better way to stand out and glorify God than to counter one of the most pervasive mindsets of our culture – that of money purchasing our contentment, happiness, and success?
“He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much; and he who is unrighteous in a very little thing is unrighteous also in much”
Scripture clearly states that the love of money is the root of all evil. Matthew 6:24 explains the reason behind this, “No one can serve two masters. Either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.” If we take this to heart and seek to love God more than any other thing, then our goal in life is transformed. Our main intent is to love and obey Him. From this position, we begin to view all that we possess as coming from Him. By recognizing the ultimate Giver, we can learn to love and serve God, rather than money.
But money will always be a component of our lives. Ignoring it, therefore, is clearly not the solution. Our approach, instead, should be that of stewarding the finances given to us. Jesus clearly states the eternal importance of this in the parable of the unrighteous steward: “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much… So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?” Luke 16: 10-11.
Part of being a good steward of the resources God has given us, is to understand finances and the way money operates. We must begin to see it as a tool, enabling us to lavishly honor God and give generously to those around us. So consider, does your credit card history reveal a heart bent on the approval of man or God? Matthew 6:21 states, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Ask God to help you place your treasure in Him and faithfully steward the resources He has provided. In doing this, we can show the world the greatest Treasure of all.
Proverbs 3:9, “Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce.”
If you want to gain practical advice on how to save, pay off debt, and give far more than you ever thought possible, we encourage you to check out the resources below:
