Topics in the Bible

If you are here it’s because you believe your heart is open, ready to allow God to stir some freshness into your thinking on money. This is going to be a reflective process. Here is how you can approach this.

Firstly, read through the list of topics in the next activity.
Secondly, read through the list again and notice which topics stand out for you.
Thirdly, open that item and read the scripture.
Finally, read the scripture again allow the verse to speak to you, to read you.

After going through this process, move onto the next activity where you will have time to write down your reflections.

Here is a list of topics and verses that are relevant to the topic of money:

The concept of stewardship emphasises responsible and faithful management of resources entrusted to us by God.

“Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” – 1 Corinthians 4:2 (ESV)

Practice transparency in all financial dealings, providing clear information about how funds are used. Accountability ensures that leaders and staff are responsible for their actions.

“The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.” – Proverbs 11:3 (NIV)

Develop a culture of generosity, both within the organisation and among donors.

“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” – 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NIV)

Effective financial management includes planning and budgeting to maximise the use of your funds.

“For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it?” – Luke 14:28 (NKJV)

The Bible advises against incurring excessive debt. Strive to avoid accumulating debt that could hinder your mission.

“The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.” – Proverbs 22:7 (ESV)

Pay fair wages for your employees and volunteers and provide for the well-being of those who serve the organisation.

“Behold, the wages of the labourers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, are crying out against you, and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts.” – James 5:4 (ESV)

Set aside reserves or contingency funds to handle unexpected financial challenges.

“Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise. Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest.” – Proverbs 6:6-8 (ESV)

Guard against greed and the pursuit of wealth at the expense of your mission. Maintain a focus on the organisation’s purpose.

“Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’” – Hebrews 13:5 (ESV)

Seek guidance through prayer and discernment when making significant financial decisions.

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV)

Ensure accurate and honest accounting of funds, adhering to the principle of being faithful in managing even the smallest amounts.

“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.” – Luke 16:10 (NIV)

Topics in the Bible

1. Steward resources well

“Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” – 1 Corinthians 4:2 (ESV)

2. Live with transparency and accountability

“The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity.” – Proverbs 11:3 (NIV)

3. Encourage generous giving

“Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” – 2 Corinthians 9:7 (NIV)

4. Plan and budget thoroughly

“For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it?” – Luke 14:28 (NKJV)

5. Avoid debt

“The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.” – Proverbs 22:7 (ESV)

6. Ensure fair wages and care for workers

“Behold, the wages of the labourers who mowed your fields, which you kept back by fraud, are crying out against you, and the cries of the harvesters have reached the ears of the Lord of hosts.” – James 5:4 (ESV)

7. Be prepared for emergencies

“Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise. Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest.” – Proverbs 6:6-8 (ESV)

8. Avoid greed

“Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’” – Hebrews 13:5 (ESV)

9. Seek God’s Guidance

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6 (ESV)

10. Account for every penny

“Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much.” – Luke 16:10 (NIV)