August 3

The Wise Use Of Money

Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things, at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work. — 2 Cor 9:7-8 BSB

We must not view money as our own, because on every coin is written, “By the Grace of God.” Money is God’s gift to us. “Both riches and honor come from You.” David was right when he said, after giving generously to God’s work, “Of Your own we have given You.”

But you might say, “I earn my money by the sweat of my brow.” True, but “you shall remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you the power to get wealth.” It is God who enables us to keep our jobs, who protects us from illness, preserves our mental clarity, and renews our daily strength. We claim to be wholly devoted to Christ, and this consecration means that all we have belongs to Him. We should be constantly asking, “Lord, what would You have me do with it?”

We are responsible for providing for our families (1 Timothy 5:8), and it’s also wise to hold a certain amount as capital to expand business and provide employment. When a person uses their resources fairly, taking only a reasonable profit for their time and effort and sharing the surplus with their workers, they are doing more good than if they gave away their money to countless beggars. We are stewards of the Lord’s resources, as Jesus illustrated in the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14).

To guard against loving money too much, we should set aside a specific portion for Christ’s work. This may seem unnecessary for those who claim to give all to Christ, but our hearts are so fickle that we might think we’re being more generous than we are unless we keep track. It’s not for anyone else to decide what proportion to give, but whatever you choose, it should be carefully set aside from your income. First, give yourself to Christ, and everything else will fall into place (2 Corinthians 8:5).

Prayer

Help me, dear Lord, to follow the example of Your holy life. Teach me how to gain by giving and to find by losing, according to Your word. Amen.