From the Scriptures and the article, I draw the following ethical principles for managing money:
*Submission to authority*: Paying taxes and obeying laws (Matthew 17:24-27, 22:15-22)
*Stewardship*: Managing God’s resources wisely (Matthew 25:14-30)
*Prioritizing God*: Not serving wealth, but serving God (Matthew 6:24-27)
*Trust in God’s provision*: Seeking first the kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33)
*Generosity and giving*: Using resources to bless others (Matthew 25:31-46)
Instances where these principles are used in the wrong way include:
*Prosperity gospel*: Misusing Scripture to justify wealth accumulation and materialism
*Financial dishonesty*: Embezzlement, tax evasion, or fraud in the name of “God’s blessing”
*Lack of generosity*: Hoarding resources while neglecting those in need
*Idolizing wealth*: Prioritizing material possessions over relationships and spiritual growth
*Ignoring the poor*: Neglecting to care for the vulnerable and marginalized
To live by the law of the Spirit, Christians should:
*Seek guidance from the Holy Spirit* in financial decisions
*Cultivate a heart of gratitude and contentment*
*Avoid love of money and materialism*
*Practice generosity and giving*
*Trust in God’s sovereignty and provision*