The Bible offers a comprehensive view on wealth, emphasizing the importance of a long-term perspective that aligns with spiritual values and eternal priorities. This perspective is rooted in the understanding that material wealth is temporary and should be used in ways that honor God and serve others.

Biblical Foundations

The Scriptures consistently teach that wealth is a tool rather than an end in itself. Proverbs 23:4-5 warns, "Do not wear yourself out to get rich; be wise enough to restrain yourself. When you glance at wealth, it disappears, for it makes wings for itself and flies like an eagle to the sky." This passage highlights the fleeting nature of riches and the futility of pursuing them as a primary goal.

In the New Testament, Jesus addresses the issue of wealth in the Sermon on the Mount. Matthew 6:19-21 states, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Here, Jesus encourages believers to focus on eternal treasures, underscoring the importance of a heavenly perspective on wealth.

Stewardship and Responsibility

The Bible calls for responsible stewardship of resources. In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), Jesus illustrates the principle of stewardship, where servants are entrusted with their master's wealth and are expected to manage it wisely. This parable teaches that God entrusts individuals with resources and expects them to use these gifts for His glory and the benefit of others.

1 Timothy 6:17-19 further instructs, "Instruct those who are rich in the present age not to be conceited and not to put their hope in the uncertainty of wealth, but in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, and to be generous and ready to share, treasuring up for themselves a firm foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life." This passage emphasizes the responsibility of the wealthy to be generous and to invest in eternal values.

Warnings Against Materialism

The Bible also warns against the dangers of materialism and the love of money. 1 Timothy 6:10 states, "For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. By craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows." This verse highlights the spiritual peril associated with prioritizing wealth over faith and righteousness.

In Luke 12:15 , Jesus cautions, "Watch out! Guard yourselves against every form of greed, for one's life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions." This warning serves as a reminder that true life and fulfillment are not found in material abundance but in a relationship with God.

Eternal Perspective

The Bible encourages believers to adopt an eternal perspective on wealth, recognizing that earthly possessions are temporary. Hebrews 13:5 advises, "Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, for God has said: 'Never will I leave you, never will I forsake you.'" This assurance of God's presence and provision allows believers to focus on eternal values rather than temporal wealth.

In conclusion, the Bible provides a framework for understanding wealth that prioritizes eternal values, responsible stewardship, and a heart aligned with God's purposes. By maintaining a long-term perspective, believers are encouraged to use their resources in ways that reflect their faith and commitment to God's kingdom.