The Bible contains more than 2,300 verses related to money and possessions—a staggering number. But it’s not because money is the most important topic. Rather, it’s because money is one of the most accurate indicators of what’s going on in our hearts.
If you explore this subject, you’ll find stats like “1 out of every 7 verses in which Jesus speaks involves money,” or “11 of His 39 parables are about money.” While I’m not sure if those stats are accurate, it is true that Jesus mentions money a lot. However, His teaching is rarely about money itself. It’s always about something bigger, looming in the background.
Money isn’t just a resource; it’s a reflection. It reveals our priorities, fears, hopes, and values. Whether we live paycheck to paycheck or have significant wealth, we all wrestle with what money means to us. That’s why Jesus said in Matthew 6:21, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
From personal stress to relationship breakdowns, money often acts like a magnifying glass. It brings underlying values to the surface. For example, in marriage, financial tension is often less about dollar amounts and more about differences in values, such as security versus spontaneity, generosity versus comfort, and planning versus pleasure.
Every Financial Decision Is a Spiritual One
Even small spending decisions carry spiritual weight. That morning latte? Those new shoes? They may seem trivial, but they reflect priorities. Matthew 6:24 reminds us that “no one can serve two masters…you cannot serve God and money.”
This doesn’t mean we can’t enjoy God’s provision. In fact, Ecclesiastes 3:12–13 says, “There is nothing better…than to be joyful and to do good…also that everyone should eat and drink and take pleasure in all his toil—this is God’s gift.” However, that enjoyment must be balanced with the bigger picture: Are our financial decisions aligned with God’s heart?
In marriages and relationships, conflicting values around money are common, and they’re not necessarily wrong. One spouse may dream of traveling to create family memories, while the other may want to boost their retirement savings. Both can honor God. The key is discovering common ground and inviting God into the conversation.
Howard Dayton, the previous host of this program, used to say, “It’s hard to quarrel when you’re praying together.” Prayer aligns our hearts before we try to align our plans. Through honest conversations and mutual respect, differences can become opportunities for growth rather than division.
If money disagreements persist, don’t hesitate to bring in wise, biblical counsel. A financial advisor—especially a Certified Kingdom Advisor®—can help couples or individuals uncover shared goals and develop a plan that honors God and promotes unity.
The Bottom Line: God Wants Your Heart
Whether you’re facing a tough decision or navigating financial tension in your home, remember: it’s not ultimately about the money. God is after your heart. And when your heart is surrendered to Him, your financial decisions will reflect that trust.
So whatever you’re facing today, don’t walk through it alone. Pray. Talk. Seek wisdom. And above all, treasure Christ above all else. When He has your heart, everything else—including your finances—will follow.
On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:
- I have a credit card with a $9,300 balance and would like to know how to pay it off quickly while minimizing high-interest charges.
- I have an annuity and IRAs with Edward Jones that I'm unhappy with due to low performance and high fees. I'm considering moving my investments to Schwab or another financial institution and want advice on how to manage my approximately $500,000 in investable assets.
- I currently have two certificates of deposit and would like to know if I should liquidate them and open an IRA instead.
Resources Mentioned:
- Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine
- Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money (Pre-Order)
- Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety
- Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool
- Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)
- FaithFi App
Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.
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