Topical Encyclopedia Definition and Context: Spending, in a biblical context, refers to the use or allocation of resources, particularly money, for various purposes. The Bible provides guidance on how believers should manage their financial resources, emphasizing principles of stewardship, generosity, and responsibility. Biblical Principles on Spending: 1. Stewardship: The Bible teaches that all resources belong to God, and humans are merely stewards of what He has entrusted to them. This principle is foundational in understanding spending from a biblical perspective. In 1 Corinthians 4:2 , it is stated, "Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful." Believers are called to manage their resources wisely and faithfully. 2. Generosity: Generosity is a key aspect of biblical spending. Proverbs 11:24-25 highlights the blessings associated with generosity: "One gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds what is right, only to become poor. A generous soul will prosper, and he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed." The act of giving is encouraged as a reflection of God's own generosity towards humanity. 3. Avoiding Greed and Materialism: The Bible warns against the dangers of greed and the pursuit of material wealth. 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." Believers are encouraged to focus on spiritual riches rather than accumulating earthly wealth. 4. Contentment: Contentment is an important attitude in managing finances. Philippians 4:11-12 states, "I am not saying this out of need, for I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances. I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. I am accustomed to any and every situation—to being filled and being hungry, to having plenty and having need." Contentment allows believers to spend wisely without succumbing to the pressures of consumerism. 5. Debt and Financial Responsibility: The Bible advises caution regarding debt. Proverbs 22:7 notes, "The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender." While not explicitly prohibiting debt, Scripture encourages living within one's means and being prudent in financial obligations. 6. Planning and Saving: Wise planning and saving are commended in Scripture. Proverbs 21:20 states, "Precious treasures and oil are in the dwelling of the wise, but a foolish man consumes them." Planning for the future and saving resources are seen as prudent actions that reflect good stewardship. Examples of Spending in the Bible: · The Widow’s Offering: In Mark 12:41-44 , Jesus observes a poor widow who gives two small coins, all she had, to the temple treasury. Her sacrificial giving is commended as an example of true generosity and faith. · The Prodigal Son: The parable of the prodigal son in Luke 15:11-32 illustrates the consequences of reckless spending. The younger son squanders his inheritance on extravagant living, leading to his downfall. This account serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of irresponsible financial behavior. · The Good Samaritan: In Luke 10:25-37 , the Good Samaritan spends his own money to care for a wounded traveler, demonstrating compassion and selflessness. His actions exemplify the biblical call to use resources to help those in need. Conclusion: The Bible provides comprehensive guidance on spending, emphasizing stewardship, generosity, and responsibility. Believers are encouraged to manage their resources in a way that honors God, supports others, and reflects a heart of contentment and gratitude. Webster's Revised Unabridged Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Spend.2. (n.) The act of expending; expenditure. Greek 1304. diatribo -- to rub hard, rub away, to spend time ... Word Origin from dia and the same as tribos Definition to rub hard, rub away, to spend time NASB Word Usage spending (1), spending time (2), spent (3), stayed ... //strongsnumbers.com/greek2/1304.htm - 7k 1236. diago -- to carry over, to pass 1159. dapanao -- to spend, spend freely 4021. periergos -- overly careful, curious, meddling, subst. a ... 5048. teleioo -- to bring to an end, to complete, perfect 3915. paracheimasia -- a wintering Library The Faithful Spending the Days of the Salutatory Passion in ... A Serious Persuasive to Such a Method of Spending Our Days as is ... Whether Prodigality is a More Grievous Sin than Covetousness? Whether Using Money is the Act of Liberality? Whether There is a vice Opposed to Meanness? Whether Doing Good to Another is a Cause of Pleasure? Return of the Apostles. --Miraculous Feeding of the Five Thousand. ... Some Time Ago, Macarius, a Man of Distinction from his Faith, his ... The Eighth Commandment Whether Prodigality is Opposite to Covetousness? Thesaurus Spending (7 Occurrences)... Noah Webster's Dictionary 1. (p. pr. & vb. n.) of Spend. 2. (n.) The act of expending; expenditure. Multi-Version Concordance Spending (7 Occurrences). ... /s/spending.htm - 8k Visiting (10 Occurrences) Jacob (361 Occurrences) Farewell (13 Occurrences) Tour (1 Occurrence) Expense (7 Occurrences) Affectionate (5 Occurrences) Spendeth (4 Occurrences) Spends (2 Occurrences) Sermon (1 Occurrence) Resources Should a Christian use a credit card? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the significance of Jesus eating with sinners? | GotQuestions.org I am a Christian in debt. What should I do? | GotQuestions.org Spending: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Concordance Spending (7 Occurrences)Luke 2:43 John 3:22 Acts 12:19 Acts 15:33 Acts 18:23 Acts 20:16 Acts 25:14 Subtopics Related Terms |