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What Does the Bible Say About Money

1 Timothy 6:17-19

“As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.”

Does the Bible address money? Absolutely. Jesus spoke about money in about 15% of His teachings, and Paul also offers clear instructions about wealth. In 1 Timothy 6:10, Paul reminds us that “the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil.” It’s not money itself that is the problem—it’s the idolatry of money.

When money becomes our ultimate hope or source of security, we stop trusting God. As Paul instructs Timothy, pastors are to help their congregations see money rightly—not as a source of arrogance, but as a resource entrusted to us by God.

4 Truths About Money From 1 Timothy 6:17-19:

1) It Won’t Last Forever

Our money and possessions are temporary. They age, break down, or get spent. And when we die, we can’t take anything with us.

Paul warns, “Tell the rich not to be haughty or arrogant, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches” (v. 17). Wealth is fleeting—it can be lost, stolen, or destroyed. Instead of trusting in riches, Paul calls us to trust in God.

This doesn’t mean we should be pessimistic about life, but realistic. Our ultimate hope is not in something temporary, but in God’s eternal kingdom. “Therefore let us be grateful for receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, and thus let us offer to God acceptable worship, with reverence and awe” (Hebrews 12:28-29).

Everything we have is from God. You may think, I worked hard for what I have—it’s mine. And yes, hard work is good! But consider:

• Why do you work hard? If your goal is just to accumulate wealth or power, you’re aiming too low.

• Who gave you the ability, opportunity, and resources to work hard? It’s the Lord.

As Colossians 3:23reminds us, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.”

God is the provider and sustainer. He gave us everything in the past, He provides for us today, and He will continue to provide in the future.

2) God Is the Wealthiest

In verse 17, Paul describes God as the one who “richly provides us with everything to enjoy.”Everything belongs to Him. As Psalm 50:10-11 declares, “For every beast of the forest is mine, the cattle on a thousand hills. I know all the birds of the hills, and all that moves in the field is mine.”

God’s wealth isn’t limited to material riches. He has lavished us with the greatest treasure of all: His grace. Through Jesus, we have redemption, forgiveness, and eternal life. As Ephesians 1:7-8 says, “In Him we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of our trespasses, according to the riches of His grace, which He lavished upon us.”

Even if you lose everything in this life, you are still rich because of Jesus. This gospel perspective frees us to hold loosely to our possessions and trust fully in God.

3) Be a Steward

Paul calls us to “do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share” (v. 18). Generosity is not about obligation—it’s about reflecting God’s character.

2 Corinthians 9:6-7 reminds us, “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.”

Generosity means sacrifice. It’s choosing to give rather than accumulate. It’s saying no to temporary wants so you can say yes to eternal investments.

Be generous with your church, your neighbors, and those in need. Let your generosity point others to Jesus, the One who gave everything for us:

• He became poor so we could have heavenly riches.

• He took our sin so we could be forgiven.

• He died in our place so we could have eternal life.

4) Invest the Right Way

Paul encourages us to “store up treasure…as a good foundation for the future” (v. 19). He echoes Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6:19-20: “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy…but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.”

Investing in eternal things means prioritizing the gospel:

• Supporting missions and ministries.

• Serving in your church and community.

• Using your time, talents, and resources to point others to Jesus.

This is wise stewardship that glorifies God and leads to true life.

Final Thoughts: A Gospel Perspective on Money

Money matters because it reveals where our hearts are. Are we trusting in riches or in the God who richly provides? Are we accumulating wealth for ourselves or using it to further God’s kingdom?

Let’s remember that our ultimate treasure is Jesus. He is our provider, sustainer, and Savior. Even if we lose everything, we have the riches of His grace and the hope of eternal life.

May we honor God with our wealth, be generous to others, and invest in what truly matters.

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Awesome God

The 1980s were a unique time to grow up. From neon-colored clothes to big hair, and yes, the lingo, it was a decade full of memorable trends. Among the popular words of the time, “rad” or “radical” stood out, a term used to describe something cool, exciting, or extraordinary. Another favorite word was “awesome.” Though it gained popularity in the 70s, it remained a staple for expressing enthusiasm in the 80s. Anytime my friends or I experienced something thrilling or fun, we’d shout, “That was awesome!”

But let’s pause for a moment and think about the word “awesome.” Webster’s Dictionary defines it as, “inspiring awe,” “terrific,” or “extraordinary.” Based on this definition, there is no one more awesome than God Himself. He is the most extraordinary, the most inspiring, and the One who truly fills us with awe.

The Awe of God in 1 Timothy

In the book of 1 Timothy, Paul gives Timothy instruction on how to lead the church, guard the truth, and teach sound doctrine. Near the end of the letter, Paul encourages Timothy to flee false teaching, pursue righteousness, fight the good fight of faith, and hold tightly to the hope of eternal life (1 Timothy 6:11-12).

As Paul reflects on these truths, he can’t help but turn his focus to praise. He pens one of the most beautiful doxologies in Scripture, declaring the greatness and sovereignty of God:

“He is the blessed and only Sovereign, the King of kings, and the Lord of Lords, who alone is immortal and who lives in unapproachable light, whom no one has seen or can see. To him be honor and eternal power. Amen.”

1 Timothy 6:15-16

Let’s break down what this passage reveals about the awesome nature of God:

1. God Is Sovereign Over All

Paul calls God the “blessed and only Sovereign.” To be sovereign means to have supreme power, control, and authority. God reigns over all creation, from the smallest detail to the greatest kingdom. The title “King of kings and Lord of lords” emphasizes that there is no equal to God—no one comes close. He stands in a category all His own, infinitely above everything else.

2. God Alone Is Immortal

Paul reminds us that God is the author of life and the source of all existence. Pastor R. Kent Hughes puts it well:

“This lifts God up as the bestower of life. We humans are immortal because we will exist after death, whether in heaven or hell. But this is only because he who possesses life has created us so. He is the absolute sovereign of all life.”

God alone is eternal, existing from everlasting to everlasting. Every breath we take is a gift from Him.

3. God Dwells in Unapproachable Light

Paul describes God as dwelling in “unapproachable light,” a reference to His holiness and purity. Think back to Moses in Exodus 33, when he asked to see God’s glory. God only allowed Moses to see His passing glory, for no one could fully behold His presence and live.

This truth reminds us that God’s holiness is beyond comprehension. Yet in His mercy, He draws near to us through Jesus Christ.

4. To Him Be Honor and Eternal Dominion

Paul concludes this doxology with a declaration of worship. He gives all honor and eternal dominion to God, emphasizing His rule that lasts forever. Unlike earthly kingdoms that rise and fall, God’s reign is eternal. He is worthy of all praise, now and forevermore.

Resting in God’s Sovereignty

When we consider God’s sovereignty, it brings a sense of peace and rest. Knowing that our lives are in the hands of the One who is all-powerful, all-knowing, and ever-present should calm our fears and anxieties. As Psalm 139:2 reminds us, God knows our coming and going. He cares for us deeply, guiding our steps with His perfect wisdom and love.

In a world that often feels chaotic, it’s comforting to know that God is in control. His sovereignty and goodness give us the assurance we need to trust Him with our lives.

The Awesome God of the 80s and Today

So, as I think back to the 80s and the word “awesome,” I can’t help but smile. The word might have been used for everything from cool skate tricks to blockbuster movies, but its true meaning points us to someone far greater. God alone is truly awesome—amazing in His love, extraordinary in His power, and inspiring in His holiness.

May we live in awe of Him, giving Him the honor and glory He deserves.