11 Money Lessons from The Bible
Most of us didn’t grow up thinking of the Bible as a financial playbook. But look a little closer and you’ll find some financial wisdom on the pages of the Good Book, no matter your personal beliefs. Here are 11 biblical lessons to help guide your financial journey with purpose and clarity.
1. Tithe Regularly To Practice Discipline
Malachi 3:10 instructs people to tithe 10% of their income. Tithing or donating to a good cause can not only benefit your place of worship or a cause you care about, but also your taxes. Generally speaking, the IRS allows you to deduct up to 60% of your adjusted gross income via charitable deductions.
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2. Save For The Future Like The Ant
Proverbs 6:6–8 urges people to “consider the ant” — a tireless worker that stores during summer to survive the winter. In other words, saving is essential. Whether it’s for emergencies or education, a habit of setting aside money helps you weather financial winters.
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3. Avoid Debt When Possible
Proverbs 22:7 states that the borrower becomes the lender’s slave. That’s a hard truth. That’s why, before borrowing, it’s important to have the full picture of a prospective loan — the loan term, the interest rate, payment dates, late pay penalties and more.
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4. Plan Ahead Like A Builder Counting Cost
You wouldn’t build a house without a blueprint, right? Jesus paints that picture in Luke 14:28, and Proverbs 21:5 adds: “The plans of the diligent lead to profit.” It’s about being intentional with your finances — knowing where your money is going, not wondering where it went.
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5. Use Honest Measures In All Dealings
There’s something sacred about financial integrity. Whether you’re invoicing a client or repaying a friend, honesty is similar to worship. Proverbs 11:1 teaches us not be dishonest. Be the person who uses fair dealings.
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6. Seek Steady Growth, Avoid Get-Rich-Quick Thinking
Flashy promises and shortcuts to wealth are rarely what they appear to be. One impulsive choice can undo years of thoughtful financial stewardship. Proverbs 13:11 says, “Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.” Instead of gambling for quick gain, focus on building consistency — because real growth takes time and wisdom.
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7. Seek Wise Counsel Before Major Moves
Proverbs 15:22 says: “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” When facing financial crossroads, seek out voices you trust, as someone else’s experience or expertise might save you from a costly mistake or open your eyes to a better path.
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8. Be Content With Enough And Reject Greed
Proverbs 15:16 reads, “Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil.” Chasing more can blind you to what you have. In other words, don’t buy what you don’t need. That’s a universal budgeting tip.
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9. Treat Money As a Trust To Manage
Luke 16:10–11 ties faithfulness in small finances to future responsibilities. Handle $100 well, and $1,000 may follow. That mindset changes spending into stewardship. In short, small acts shape a lasting legacy.
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10. Diversify Your Investments Thoughtfully
Putting all your eggs in one basket? Not wise. Ecclesiastes 11:2 advises spreading portions in multiple directions. So, build layers of security. That doesn’t mean living in fear — it means living prepared. When life throws curveballs, a little variety in your financial planning helps you catch them with confidence.
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11. Avoid Co-Signing And Risky Promises
When you guarantee a loan, you put your credit and peace on the line. If they fail to pay, you’re on the hook. Instead, find other ways to support them. According to Proverbs 17:18, God warns against shaking hands in a pledge for someone else’s debt.
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