4 Vital Money Questions for Christians: Stewardship, Contentment, and Trust

Four Questions to Keep Close to Your Wallet

Money. It's a topic that often stirs up mixed emotions. Some people view it as a necessary evil, while others see it as a means to achieve their dreams and desires. As Christians, how should we approach the subject of money? How can we navigate the tension between our earthly needs and our heavenly calling? In this article, we will explore four important questions to keep close to your wallet.

Question 1: What is the source of my wealth?

Before we can properly steward our finances, we must first understand the source of our wealth. Is it our own hard work and abilities? Or is it ultimately a gift from God? The Bible reminds us in Deuteronomy 8:18, "You shall remember the LORD your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth." Our wealth is a result of God's provision and grace. Recognizing this truth humbles us and helps us to approach our finances with gratitude and generosity.

When we acknowledge that God is the source of our wealth, it changes our perspective. We no longer view money as something to hoard or idolize, but as a tool to be used for God's purposes. We become stewards, managing God's resources for His glory. This mindset frees us from the love of money and allows us to use it to bless others and advance God's kingdom.

Question 2: How am I using my wealth?

Once we understand that our wealth comes from God, the next question we must ask ourselves is how we are using it. Are we using our money to fulfill our own desires and ambitions? Or are we investing it in things that have eternal value?

In Matthew 6:19-20, Jesus says, "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal." Jesus reminds us that earthly treasures are temporary and can be easily lost. Instead, we should focus on storing up treasures in heaven, which are eternal.

Using our wealth for the advancement of God's kingdom involves supporting ministries, missions, and those in need. It means being generous and willing to give sacrificially. When we use our money in this way, we are investing in things that have eternal significance and impact. We are storing up treasures in heaven that will last for all eternity.

Question 3: Am I content with what I have?

Contentment is a virtue that is often overlooked in our consumeristic society. We are constantly bombarded with messages that tell us we need more, that we deserve the latest and greatest things. But as Christians, we are called to a different standard.

In 1 Timothy 6:6, Paul writes, "But godliness with contentment is great gain." When we are content with what we have, we experience true gain. We are freed from the constant pursuit of material possessions and find satisfaction in God alone. Contentment allows us to live with gratitude and joy, regardless of our financial circumstances.

Contentment also guards our hearts against the love of money. When we are content, we are less likely to be tempted by the allure of wealth and materialism. We are able to resist the urge to compare ourselves to others and find our worth and identity in worldly possessions. Instead, we find our value in Christ and seek to live a life of simplicity and generosity.

Question 4: Am I trusting God with my finances?

Trusting God with our finances is an act of faith. It requires us to let go of our desire for control and surrender to His plans and purposes. In Proverbs 3:5-6, we are encouraged to "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths."

Trusting God with our finances means seeking His wisdom and guidance in our financial decisions. It means acknowledging that He is the ultimate provider and that He knows what is best for us. It also means being willing to obey His commands regarding money, such as tithing and being generous.

When we trust God with our finances, we can have confidence that He will provide for our needs. We no longer have to worry or be anxious about money, because we know that God is in control. We can rest in His promises and experience the peace that comes from knowing that our Heavenly Father cares for us.

Conclusion

Money is a powerful force in our lives. It has the potential to consume us and lead us astray if we are not careful. But as Christians, we have a higher calling. We are called to be good stewards of the resources God has entrusted to us.

By asking ourselves these four questions and aligning our hearts and minds with God's Word, we can approach our finances in a way that honors Him. We can use our wealth for His glory, invest in things that have eternal value, find contentment in Him alone, and trust Him with our financial future.

So, as you reach into your wallet, remember to keep these questions close. Let them guide your financial decisions and shape your perspective on money. And may God's wisdom and grace be with you as you navigate the complexities of managing your finances in a way that honors Him.