Archive for November 22nd, 2009
Biblically-based Finances
For many who are Christians, it is important to order their finances based on principles found in the Bible. This is based on the belief that if something is important to you, it will impact every area of your life. The Bible specifically talks about finances as it relates to giving to God, giving to those in need, loving money, lending money, and taxes.
Not surprisingly, one the main areas the Bible addresses is giving to God. Giving to God is seen as a mark of right living. While there is no set money amount required to be given, a widow who gives all she has, though it is very little, is extolled. Giving to the poor is also stressed. This is one way a Christian is to act on their faith.
The Bible speaks strongly about loving money. It is viewed as impossible to love God and love money. It is impossible to serve and love both. Rather than pursuing wealth, the biblical ideal is to pursue being content with what you have.
Interestingly, the Bible spends more time addressing lending money than borrowing money. The concept of usury, lending money at potentially exorbitant levels of interest, has been a major topic throughout Christian history, and there is much debate as to how the concept applies today.
The Bible also addresses taxes. Jesus did not consider himself excused from paying taxes, but rather taught his disciples to give to Caesar what is his. According to biblical principles, taxes should not be avoided but rather paid as required.
These types of financial topics are mentioned and discussed in the Bible, giving those who seek to apply the Bible practical steps as to how to operate their financial business within its bounds.
Ronnica Rothe is a graduate with honors from the University of Oklahoma and a current student at Southeastern Baptist Theological Seminary. She works with Vision Credit Education, Inc. to help individuals get out of debt and reach their financial goals.