Understanding True Success: Lessons on Wealth, Work, and Debt

In our pursuit of success, many of us often equate the accumulation of material wealth with achieving our goals. However, countless stories of wealthy individuals who, despite their immense riches, are unhappy, have failed families and marriages, have faced bankruptcy, and even committed suicide, reveal that material wealth is not synonymous with true success.

The Power of Money

Jesus speaks about money more than any other topic in the Bible, highlighting its significance. Money is a powerful servant but can be a terrible master. Understanding this, I have learned two key principles: the Ownership Principle and the Management Principle.

The Ownership Principle

Psalm 24:1 states, “The earth is the Lord’s and everything in it; the world and all who live in it.” God is the source of all wealth; He is the provider and creator. Our role is to invest on God’s behalf all the wealth He entrusts to us. This means treating all money that passes through our hands with respect, holding it as stewards.

The Management Principle

1 Timothy 6:17-19 advises, “Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way, they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.” These teachings ensure that I become a good money manager and not be managed by money.

Work as Part of God’s Plan

Work was created as part of what it means to be made in God’s image. Engaging in productive work to earn a living and support our families is part of our divine purpose. Deuteronomy 8:17-18 reminds us that it is the Lord who gives us the ability to produce wealth. Therefore, all wealth belongs to Him, and even as we spend it on giving, paying taxes, funding our lifestyle, and saving, we should do so with care, knowing it is not ours in the first place.

The Importance of Giving

Giving is the first allocation of our income, and this is intentional. Giving allows us to thank God for His goodness, express His love to others, support those in spiritual leadership, and declare our dependence on God. Forms of giving include tithing, freewill offerings, and gifting to the poor in our community.

Warnings Against Debt

The Bible warns against debt, with Proverbs offering several cautions. Proverbs 17:18 says, “A man lacking in judgment strikes hands in pledge and puts up security for his neighbor.” Proverbs 22:7 warns, “Do not be a man who strikes hands in pledge or puts up security for debt; if you lack the means to pay, your very bed will be snatched from under you.”

Debt deprives God of the chance to say "No" or provide a better solution. It ties up our resources, making them unavailable to the kingdom of God, and can ruin relationships, reputations, and credibility. Debt enslaves and is expensive, leading to a loss of opportunity for money to work for us. Instead, we pay back high interest, robbing God and being dishonest. Debt provides an easy way out, making it addictive and preventing us from learning to live within our means.

Finding a Way Out of Debt

For those entangled in debt, God provides a way out. Start by praying about the debt situation and discovering the lesson that led to borrowing. Develop a debt repayment plan and commit to it. Communicate your plans to creditors to rebuild trust and hold yourself accountable. Check your budget and plan your expenditure to align with your current standard of living and debt repayment plan. Reduce your expenditure and live within your means.

Exceptions and Planning

Debt can be incurred for mortgages or loans for home ownership, but it is wise to save a sizable deposit to ease repayment burdens. Credit cards should generally be avoided due to high temptation and potential abuse, recommended only for disciplined users or emergencies.

Luke 14:28 advises, “…sit down and estimate the cost to see if he has enough money to complete it…” Planning involves assessing income, keeping detailed records of expenses, making a working budget, separating money for different categories, and monitoring the budget monthly to ensure living within means.

Basic Financial Principles

I learned some basic financial principles to live by: Nothing is a good deal unless I can afford it; before committing to debt, give God a chance by praying and waiting for His answer; and remember that increased income doesn’t necessarily mean increased spending.

Conclusion

In conclusion, true success is not measured by the accumulation of material wealth but by our relationship with God and our stewardship of His resources. Jesus emphasized the importance of money, highlighting its power as both a servant and a master. By understanding the Ownership and Management Principles, we can become good stewards of the wealth God entrusts to us.

Work is part of our divine purpose, and giving is a crucial aspect of our financial management, allowing us to express gratitude and support others. The Bible warns against the dangers of debt, urging us to live within our means and seek God's guidance in financial matters.

By planning carefully, avoiding unnecessary debt, and adhering to basic financial principles, we can manage our resources wisely and fulfill our role in God's mission. Ultimately, our goal is to serve God, make disciples, and live a life of significance, reflecting His love and care in all aspects of our lives.