By: Alex Cook
Money stress is at an all-time high. According to the American Psychological Association (2024), 77% of Americans report financial stress as their #1 life concern. Inflation, rising housing costs, and overwhelming debt affect everyone, Christians included.
But here’s the difference: Christians are called to manage money with eternal perspective. Scripture doesn’t shy away from talking about money (over 2,350 verses mention wealth, possessions, or stewardship). That means our approach as believers can’t look exactly like the world’s.
This article will give you biblical truth + proven financial strategies so you can experience peace, freedom, and purpose in your financial life.
What Makes Christian Financial Advice Different?
Most financial advice out there focuses on one thing: maximize wealth for personal gain.
- More investments.
- Bigger retirement accounts.
- Faster debt payoff.
While those things matter, Christian financial advice starts with a different foundation: stewardship.
“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” — Psalm 24:1
This shifts everything. If everything belongs to God, then money isn’t ours to own; it’s ours to manage for His purposes. That means the way we save, give, invest, and even spend should reflect Kingdom values, not just culture.
The Top Financial Challenges Christians Face Today
When Christians search for “financial advice,” they’re usually wrestling with one of these pressing issues:
Debt That Feels Like Bondage
- The average U.S. household carries over $103,000 in debt (Experian, 2023).
- Proverbs 22:7 reminds us: “The borrower is slave to the lender.”
- Debt doesn’t just affect your wallet, it can rob peace, hinder generosity, and limit ministry opportunities.
Balancing Generosity with Financial Struggles
- Half of churchgoers don’t give regularly (Barna, 2022).
- Many Christians want to tithe or give but feel stuck when bills consume all their income.
Wealth Guilt vs. Prosperity Confusion
- Some believers feel guilty about success.
- Others get swept into prosperity gospel teachings that distort scripture.
- Both extremes leave Christians unsure how to handle money faithfully.
Retirement & Legacy Neglect
- 55% of Americans have no retirement savings (Bankrate, 2024).
- Christians often avoid future planning because it feels “worldly.” But Proverbs 13:22 tells us: “A good person leaves an inheritance for their children’s children.”
These are spiritual and practical issues combined, which is why a biblical approach to financial advice is essential.
Foundational Biblical Principles for Christian Finances
Before diving into strategies, we need to anchor ourselves in biblical money principles that never change.
God Owns It All
- Psalm 24:1: “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.”
- Shift your mindset: You’re not the owner, you’re the steward.
Money is a Tool, Not a Master
- Matthew 6:24: “You cannot serve both God and money.”
- Money should serve Kingdom purposes, not control your life.
Contentment is Greater Than Comparison
- Philippians 4:12: “I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.”
- Comparison fuels debt and overspending. Contentment fuels peace.
Generosity Unlocks Blessing
- Proverbs 11:25: “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.”
- Biblical giving isn’t about legalism, it’s about trust, obedience, and Kingdom impact.
Practical First Steps for Christians Seeking Financial Advice
So, where do you start if you’re feeling overwhelmed by money stress?
Step 1: Audit Your Finances with a Kingdom Lens
- Write down your income, expenses, giving, savings, and debt.
- Ask: “Does this budget reflect God’s priorities or just cultural pressure?”
Step 2: Identify Areas of Misalignment
- Are you overspending in lifestyle while under-giving?
- Do you have debt payments larger than your generosity?
- Are you saving nothing for the future because of fear or guilt?
Step 3: Commit to Stewardship Goals
Examples:
- Pay off $5,000 in debt by the end of the year.
- Tithe consistently, even if small at first.
- Save 3 months of expenses for emergencies.
Free Resource for You
Want to start your journey toward biblical stewardship? DOWNLOAD The Journey to Financial Freedom
Why This Foundation Matters for the Next 5 Years
Think about this: Five years ago was 2020. It feels like we blinked, and it’s gone. The next five years will go just as quickly.
The question is: will you drift financially, or design your financial future with intention?
Financial advice for Christians isn’t about getting rich quick. It’s about creating a life of peace, impact, and Kingdom purpose where money is a servant, not a master.
A Call to Stewardship
Christians don’t need “generic” financial advice. We need biblical, practical, and sustainable strategies that honour God and free us to live generously.
FAQs
Q1: Why do Christians need different financial advice than the world?
Because Scripture calls us to stewardship and Kingdom purpose, not just wealth accumulation.
Q2: How often does the Bible talk about money?
Over 2,350 verses mention money, wealth, or stewardship more than heaven or hell.
Q3: What’s the first step for Christians to take control of their money?
Start by auditing your finances with a Kingdom perspective, then set stewardship-based goals.
Q4: Is wanting financial freedom selfish?
No. True financial freedom allows Christians to live with peace, provide for family, and increase generosity.
Article supplied with thanks to Wealth with Purpose.
About the Author: Alex is a licensed financial planner and the founder of Wealth with Purpose a Stewardship Ministry that helps Christians handle their money God’s way.
Feature image: Canva
