Does the Bible really say that money is the root of all evil? Money is everywhere. Our societies run on money; we need it to stay alive. Does that mean we have to abandon society to get away from its evil grasp?
Thankfully, no. The Bible actually says, “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil” (1 Timothy 6:10, italics added). That’s very different. It takes the focus away from money itself and places it onto our feelings towards money. Money is not inherently evil—really, it’s just a tool. Our attitude towards it, however, can lead us down the wrong path. The verse goes on to read that “some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs”.
It can be hard not to love money—it grants us countless advantages, giving us access to not only necessities but the comforts of life. But while it’s good to learn how to manage your finances, it’s important to remember what Jesus tells us in Matthew 6: “You cannot serve both God and money.” The love of money can easily steal our top priority spot that should be reserved for God.
But how do we not love money?
There are many people in the world who have little material wealth, while in other parts people have too much. A culture of overconsumption and consumerism convinces us that we need things that we really don’t. To turn away from consumerism we have to embrace the idea of living a life of simplicity—learning to live with less and giving what we don’t need to those who actually are in need. It requires practice and intentionality, but through this it’s possible to learn that giving brings joy.
In our Church we are encouraged to give tithes and offerings. It can sometimes be challenging to give 10 per cent of your wages and can feel as though your small contribution won’t do very much. However, while the funds do go towards the Church’s mission, there’s a greater purpose as to why we give. It’s a reminder that what we have ultimately belongs to God and through giving we acknowledge that He will provide all our needs.
With this perspective, we don’t give tithe but return it, and the looser we hold onto our money, the easier it is to embrace this idea. What we have belongs to God—we are merely stewards of the resources we are given.
Jesus tells us, “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:20,21).
So while we do still linger in this world, we must remember that money can be used for good as long as we keep God at the centre of our finances, live a life content in our simplicity and remember that ultimately, our greatest treasure is Jesus Christ and the salvation He offers.
Ashley Jankiewicz is an assistant editor for Adventist Record.
