Managing Finances with Godly Wisdom

Written by: Layne McDonald, Ph.D.

“The borrower is slave to the lender.” – Proverbs 22:7

Money is often seen as a necessary tool for living, but when we manage it with wisdom, it becomes a powerful tool for honoring God. Financial stewardship is not just about making ends meet—it's a form of worship, a way we acknowledge God’s provision and demonstrate trust in His faithfulness. Whether we are teens learning to manage our first paycheck or parents guiding our families through financial decisions, managing our finances God’s way can lead to peace, freedom, and greater generosity.

The Impact of Financial Stress

Research shows that 60% of young adults report financial stress impacting their mental health (Bankrate). The pressures of managing money can be overwhelming, and in today’s consumer-driven world, the temptation to overspend and accumulate debt is strong. But God has given us principles in His Word to guide us, ensuring we can live financially stable lives while honoring Him.

Tips for Managing Finances with Godly Wisdom

• Tithe Faithfully and Trust God’s Provision
  God calls us to bring our first fruits to Him. When we tithe, we acknowledge that all we have belongs to Him, and we trust Him to provide for our needs. Malachi 3:10 encourages us to “bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the Lord Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.” Giving back to God reflects our trust in His provision.

• Follow a Budget to Honor God with Your Resources
  Proverbs 21:5 teaches, “The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” A budget is a practical way to steward our finances well, aligning our spending with God’s priorities. When we plan ahead, we avoid impulse buying and ensure that we are using our resources to bless others and fulfill our responsibilities. A budget isn’t just about restriction—it’s about using money wisely to live with freedom.

• Avoid Unnecessary Debt and Focus on Generosity
  Debt can become a heavy burden that hinders our ability to give and serve. Proverbs 22:7 warns, “The borrower is slave to the lender.” While some debt may be unavoidable, such as student loans or a mortgage, it is important to avoid unnecessary debt and instead focus on living within our means. Prioritizing saving, avoiding excessive spending, and focusing on generosity allows us to build financial freedom and bless others in meaningful ways.

Encouragement for the Journey

God desires to bless us with the wisdom to manage our finances well, and He promises to provide for those who honor Him. When we trust in His provision and live according to His principles, we find peace in the process. Financial stability comes when we align our hearts and actions with God’s Word. When we put Him first, we trust that He will meet our needs and give us opportunities to bless others in return.

Call to Action

Are you ready to manage your finances with godly wisdom? Sign up for our Financial Peace University classes, where you can learn how to make wise financial decisions, avoid debt, and experience the peace that comes from trusting God with your resources.

By honoring God with our finances, we embrace the abundant life He has planned for us—one that is marked by peace, provision, and purpose. Let’s take control of our finances, knowing that God blesses faithful stewards who trust Him.