Don’t Let Your Money Get You

Do you trust the Lord with your finances? God has a long track record of trustworthiness. Here are three warnings we must understand so your money doesn’t “get” you.

• Warning 1: “The Trap” We get trapped when we confuse our wants with our needs. (Proverbs 22:7; Galatians 5:1; Psalm 37:21; Proverbs 14:12)
  • Everyone experiences the trap of thinking money is the solution to our problems.
  • Debt is not forbidden in Scripture, but it is never encouraged.
  • When you feel trapped by debt and finances, share with community and receive biblical counsel, don’t trust in your ability alone, and find biblical ministries and resources such as Moneywise.
• Warning 2: “The Trade” We sacrifice horizontal relationships for the sake of money.
  • Financial goals are not bad, but they aren’t wise when they lead us away from loving God and loving others. (1 John 2:15-17)
  • When faced with financial goals and choices, remember life is not about possessions, and we are not guaranteed the future (James 4:13-15).
• Warning 3: “The Time Out” We put off our vertical relationship with our God for the sake of money.
  • Do you give yourself credit for what you have based on your pace, work ethic, degrees, etc.?
  • We must abide with Jesus, so we do not experience the natural consequences that find us when we press pause on our time in the Word. (John 15:5) Not abiding gives the devil a foothold in our lives and finances. (1 Peter 5:8)

Discussion and Application

• What traps have you fallen prey to regarding debt and financial priorities?
• What relationships have struggled due to your financial goals?
• What area do you believe God is calling you to serve in that your finances are potentially hindering?
• Are you approaching or currently in the “time out” stage with Jesus? What steps can you take this week to prioritize time with the Lord and seek His will?

Recommended Resources

• Additional Scripture: Matthew 6:25-33
• Additional Resources: Moneywise