The Real Secret to Financial Wisdom

When it comes to money, most people are searching for two things: security and peace of mind. That’s understandable—life is unpredictable, expenses arise, and markets swing. But what if true peace isn’t found in your circumstances at all?

Financial wisdom doesn’t start with a budget or a savings plan. It begins with trust—specifically, trusting in the Lord. Proverbs 3:5–6 reminds us, “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.”

If you chase peace through your paycheck or portfolio, you’ll always come up short. But when Christ is your foundation, you begin to see money in a new light—not as a source of peace, but as a tool to steward.

Five Secrets to Financial Wisdom from God’s Word

1. Know Who Owns It All. Psalm 24:1 says, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.” Everything belongs to God—your income, your retirement, even your ability to earn. That means we’re not owners; we’re stewards, entrusted with God’s resources to manage faithfully.

2. Spend With Purpose. Jesus asks in Luke 16:11, “If you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?” Spending should reflect God’s priorities—giving, saving, living within your means, and investing in eternal impact.

3. Avoid the Slavery of Debt. Proverbs 22:7 warns, “The borrower is slave to the lender.” Debt can limit your freedom to give and respond to God’s calling. Wise stewards build margin and pursue freedom—not because debt is always wrong, but because freedom is better.

4. Save With Perspective. Proverbs 21:20 says, “The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.” Saving isn’t about hoarding; it’s preparation for what God might have ahead. But remember: your security isn’t in your savings—it’s in the Savior.

5. Give First, and Freely. 2 Corinthians 9:7 tells us, “God loves a cheerful giver.” Generosity reflects God’s heart. It breaks the grip of greed and aligns us with His Kingdom. When we give, we declare, “God, I trust You more than I trust this money.”

Anchored in Christ

Following these biblical principles won’t guarantee worldly success. Even the most faithful stewards face trials. But when your foundation is Christ, you’re anchored. Isaiah 33:6 says, “He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge.”

So if you’re looking for security or peace, don’t start with a spreadsheet—start with surrender. Financial wisdom begins when you recognize that your Provider is also your Redeemer. And in Him, you have more than enough.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• My deceased friend’s estate is in probate, and he owned an LLC registered in another state. I’ve been told that if a new manager isn’t appointed, the LLC will be considered closed after 90 days. Once my friend’s family receives the letters of instruction, how should they go about settling or managing the LLC?
• I'm struggling financially and can't make this month’s mortgage payment. My lender has offered two options: a repayment plan and a forbearance. What’s the difference between them, and how will each option affect my credit score?
• My husband is switching jobs, and his current 401(k) has a balance of less than $500. His new employer doesn’t offer a retirement plan. What are our best options for what to do with this small amount?
• My son is thinking about filing for bankruptcy, but still hopes to buy a house sometime in the future. How will bankruptcy impact his credit, and realistically, how long will it take for him to be able to qualify for a mortgage again?

Resources Mentioned:

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• The Sound Mind Investing Handbook: A Step-by-Step Guide to Managing Your Money From a Biblical Perspective by Austin Pryor with Mark Biller
• Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money
• Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety
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