What the Bible Says About Worrying About Money
Money has always been a significant part of human life, and it often becomes a source of worry and stress for many. However, the Bible offers valuable insights on how to handle our finances and reduce the worry that often comes with them. In this article, we will explore what the Bible says about worrying about money and how we can apply these teachings to our lives.
First and foremost, the Bible teaches that worrying about money is a form of idolatry. In Matthew 6:24, Jesus says, “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.” This verse makes it clear that our primary loyalty should be to God, not to our possessions or wealth. When we worry excessively about money, we are essentially placing it above our faith, which is a form of idolatry.
Additionally, the Bible encourages us to trust in God and His provision. In Philippians 4:19, the apostle Paul writes, “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” This verse reminds us that God is capable of providing for our needs, and we should not worry about the future. Instead, we should focus on living a life of faith and trust in God’s plan for us.
One of the most famous passages on worrying about money is found in Matthew 6:25-34. Jesus says, “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life?” This passage highlights the futility of worrying about our basic needs, as God has already provided for them.
The Bible also teaches us to be content with what we have. In 1 Timothy 6:6-8, Paul writes, “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction.” This passage reminds us that true happiness comes from being content with what we have, rather than constantly striving for more.
Lastly, the Bible encourages us to be generous with our resources. In 1 Timothy 6:17-19, Paul writes, “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way, they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.” This passage teaches us that true wealth comes from being generous and sharing our resources with others.
In conclusion, the Bible offers numerous teachings on worrying about money. By understanding and applying these teachings, we can reduce our stress and anxiety about finances and focus on living a life of faith, trust, and contentment. Remember, as Jesus said, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” (Matthew 6:19-20)
