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Should Christians View Riches with Caution?
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The world often celebrates wealth as a sign of success, power, and security. Luxurious homes, designer clothes, and financial abundance are seen as proof that one has “made it.” Society encourages people to chase after riches, equating material gain with personal worth. But when viewed through a biblical lens, wealth takes on a different meaning—one that calls for discernment, humility, and stewardship.

Scripture reminds us that riches can be both a blessing and a test of the heart. While the world sees wealth as a means to elevate oneself, the Bible sees it as a responsibility to honor God and serve others. Jesus Himself cautioned, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven” (Matthew 6:19–20). Here, earthly possessions are contrasted with eternal treasures—emphasizing where a believer’s heart should truly rest.
It’s easy to forget that earthly riches are fleeting. The Book of Proverbs declares, “Do not wear yourself out to get rich; do not trust your own cleverness. Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle” (Proverbs 23:4–5). Wealth can disappear in an instant—through crisis, loss, or changing circumstances. This is why Christians are urged to anchor their hope not on possessions but on the Lord, who provides lasting security.

Possessions in themselves are not evil. However, the love of money can subtly shift one’s devotion away from God. Paul’s warning is clear: “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs” (1 Timothy 6:10). Riches can cloud priorities, fueling pride and self-sufficiency. When wealth becomes the center of one’s ambitions, spiritual growth can be stifled.
God entrusts resources to His people not to hoard, but to manage faithfully. Jesus said, “From everyone who has been given much, much will be demanded” (Luke 12:48). Prosperity is a calling to generosity, not indulgence. A true disciple recognizes that everything comes from God and must be used for His glory—whether through helping those in need, supporting the Church, or living with integrity.

Christ’s words in Matthew 6:21 serve as a guiding truth: “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Riches should never define a believer’s worth. Instead, Christians are called to set their eyes on eternal rewards—character, faith, and a life anchored in God’s purposes.
While the world urges us to chase after wealth, the Bible calls us to hold riches lightly, using them wisely and guarding our hearts. Riches are not to be feared, but they must be viewed with caution. In the end, true abundance is not found in possessions, but in a life fully surrendered to Christ.
*All Photos from bibleart.com