What does the Bible say about riches and wealth? Anything? Are there any encouraging bible verses pertaining to riches and wealth? Or, are all of the verses negative? Does the Bible discourage the creation and accumulation of wealth?
Let’s find out!
Hundreds of Bible verses mention riches and wealth. Many Bible verses positively discuss wealth. Other scriptures contain serious warnings. Riches and wealth are not the problems. The problem is our sinful nature, lack of self-control, and envious spirit. It’s possible to manage resources Biblically and honorably. With God, all things are possible.
Bible Verses About Wealth In the Old Testament
Genesis 13:2 Abram had become very wealthy in livestock and in silver and gold.
Abram was financially blessed.
Genesis 26:13 The man became rich, and his wealth continued to grow until he became very wealthy.
Isaac’s wealth was accumulative.
Deuteronomy 8:18 You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the power to get wealth, that he may confirm his covenant that he swore to your fathers, as it is this day.
God has empowered us to get wealth. I’m baffled when others denounce wealth and act as though it’s anathema.
Biblical History Books
I Samuel 2:7 The Lord sends poverty and wealth; he humbles and he exalts.
Some Bible verses are challenging and difficult to accept — like this one. There are times when life will be financially frustrating. Here’s an article that I wrote about the secret to contentment — enjoy.
I Kings 3:13 Moreover, I will give you what you have not asked for—both wealth and honor—so that in your lifetime you will have no equal among kings.
Money is rarely the answer. When I see a person immediately turn to a “Go Fund Me” page it’s obvious that they have a warped sense of money.
Solomon asked for wisdom. Wisdom brings many other goodies, including money.
I Chronicles 29:12 Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all.
God is the source of everything. Let’s not fool ourselves into thinking that we’re “self-made” anything.
Psalms & Proverbs
Psalm 49:20 People who have wealth but lack understanding are like the beasts that perish.
Warning! Warning!
Psalm 112:3 Wealth and riches are in their houses, and their righteousness endures forever.
The fear of the Lord has financial benefits.
Proverbs 8:18 With me are riches and honor, enduring wealth and prosperity.
Wisdom is once again bringing the goods.
Proverbs 10:4 Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.
Seems like a politically incorrect Bible verse and God simply doesn’t care.
Proverbs 10:22 The Lord’s blessing enriches, and he adds no painful effort to it.
Proverbs 13:7 One person pretends to be rich yet has nothing; another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth.
There are far too many “pretend” millionaires flaunting a fake lifestyle on social media. I believe that some Texans call this “Big Hat, No Cattle” or something like that.
Ecclesiastes 5:10 Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless.
It’s simple. Put money in its proper place.
Bible Verses About Wealth In The New Testament
Matthew 13:22 The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful.
I Timothy 6:17 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.
Revelation 3:17 You say, ‘I am rich; I have acquired wealth and do not need a thing.’ But you do not realize that you are wretched, pitiful, poor, blind, and naked.
Bible Verses About Riches
I Kings 10:23 King Solomon was greater in riches and wisdom than all the other kings of the earth.
I’ve heard that King Solomon’s net worth exceeded $1 trillion in modern money.
Psalm 62:10 Do not trust in extortion or put vain hope in stolen goods; though your riches increase, do not set your heart on them.
Proverbs 3:16 Long life is in her right hand; in her left hand are riches and honor.
Wisdom is awesome!
Proverbs 11:28 Those who trust in their riches will fall, but the righteous will thrive like a green leaf.
Take wealth warnings seriously!
Proverbs 22:4 True humility and fear of the Lord lead to riches, honor, and long life
“Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less.”
CS Lewis
Luke 16:11 So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?
Is it possible that stewardship is a test?