Blake Long

Let’s talk about money. It’s a tough topic talking about money can be difficult. Speaking about money in relation to being a Christian is even more difficult. The Bible speaks addresses this topic and we should too. Of course, Jesus tells us in Matthew 6:24 that we cannot serve both God and money. So dealing with the money we have is quite important, even more so when you want to be a good steward of what God has given you.

What are some practical ways in which we can steward the money God has given us, regardless of the amount?

Make a budget. One of the first things I did when I married my wife was make a budget. It was a small budget since, at first, it was just the two of us, but a budget nonetheless. Of course, with two children and a dog later, that budget has grown—a lot. But we still have a budget. And though I don’t do daily upkeep on it as I once did, I still review it periodically to ensure we are on track.

I know there are a plethora of budgets to choose from, but the one I think is most effective is the envelope system. This is the 21st century, so we’re not talking physical envelopes (although you can do that if you prefer just having cash); but this system of budgeting creates categories for where your money goes—all the way to the last dollar. I use an Excel spreadsheet, but there are apps like EveryDollar or YNAB that are set up just for this budgeting system.

By making a budget, you know where your money is going. Budget your mortgage/rent, utilities, groceries, and all the rest. You even need to budget how much you give to your local church and how much to save each month. Remember, even budgeting your money is theological because it shows you want to be careful with God’s money—for that is what it is, ultimately. When you’re lazy and negligent with money, it shows you’re not being a good steward of what God has given you.

So, make a budget. Don’t let it intimidate you. Ask someone you trust who’s good with money to help you set it up. Get serious about managing your money—God’s money—well.

Give generously. I have made the mistake many times of not giving generously because I’m too focused on the structure of my budget—even though giving is included in my family’s budget. When you prepare your budget, make sure to include a category for giving—to your church, other organizations, and even individuals in need. We must always remember that it is better to give than to receive (Acts 20:35). Go out of your way to be generous to others with your money.

Make a budget and stick to it, but make sure your budget allows for you to be extra generous to those in need. Creating a budget doesn’t mean you have to be a stick in the mud and nickel-and-dime everyone. I’ve certainly had my moments of being that way. Be generous because God is generous.

Live within your means. Lastly, make sure you budget for what you make. This helps ensure that you are living within your means. If you can’t afford that nice car, don’t buy it. We are not being good stewards of God’s gifts when we live above our means and spend more money than we have.

Is there a time for purchasing an expensive gift? Is it okay to splurge every now and then? Yes, I think so. But even those things should be planned for ahead of time and within your budget. And part of living within your means saving money. Make a “savings” category to ensure that you’re putting back money each month as a safety net or for the future.

Taking about money isn’t necessarily fun, definitely when funds are tight. But if we desire to glorify God with our finances, we must give attention to how we use the money God has given us.