As someone who has spent decades teaching and advocating for personal financial stewardship, I often find myself returning to Scripture for wisdom and guidance. One parable that has always intrigued me is Luke 16:1–13, often titled The Parable of the Dishonest Manager. At first glance, it seems perplexing. Why would Jesus commend a dishonest man? But like many of His teachings, the deeper truth lies beneath the surface.

The parable tells the story of a manager who was about to be fired for wasting his master’s possessions. Realizing he’s in trouble, he calls in his master’s debtors and reduces their debts—presumably to curry favor so they’ll take care of him later. Surprisingly, Jesus says, “The master commended the dishonest manager for his shrewdness” (v.8). Not for his dishonesty, but for his prudence.

That detail matters. As someone deeply involved in financial education, especially here in the Philippines, I see this parable as a profound lesson on wisdom, stewardship, and eternal priorities.

Stewardship Is a Trust

The first thing that strikes me is the accountability of the manager. He was merely a steward of someone else’s wealth. That’s a concept I try to impress on Filipinos: everything we have is entrusted to us by God. Our jobs, our income, our possessions—even our time and talents—aren’t really ours. We are managers, not owners.

This mindset changes everything. When we recognize that God is the true owner, we stop asking, “What do I want to do with my money?” and instead begin asking, “Lord, what would You have me do with what You’ve given me?” That’s a huge paradigm shift, and one that forms the foundation of biblical personal finance.

Be Shrewd… for the Right Kingdom

Jesus says something very provocative: “For the sons of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than the sons of light” (v.8). In other words, unbelievers often show more savvy and intentionality with money than believers do.

I’ve met many brilliant entrepreneurs, savvy investors, and disciplined savers who are not followers of Christ. Meanwhile, I’ve also seen many Christians struggle—not due to lack of faith, but due to lack of financial literacy and planning.

But Jesus isn’t telling us to imitate the dishonesty of the manager. He’s telling us to imitate his intentionality. The manager thought ahead. He used what little time and resources he had left to prepare for his future.

How often do we think about eternity when we make financial decisions? Do we give generously? Do we invest in what matters to God—His Church, His mission, and the people He loves?

Jesus says, “Make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal dwellings” (v.9). That’s a poetic way of saying: Use your money now to make an eternal impact. Help others. Fund the Gospel. Be a blessing. Because money will one day fail—but the Kingdom won’t.

Faithfulness in Little Things

Another powerful verse in this passage is verse 10: “One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much…”

We often wait for “more” before we start honoring God with our finances. “When I get a raise, I’ll start giving.” “When I earn more, I’ll budget better.” But Jesus flips that thinking. Faithfulness begins with what you have now, not with what you hope to have later.

When I started my financial journey, I wasn’t wealthy. I had to work hard to pay off debts, live within my means, and make tough decisions. But it was in those small acts of obedience that God shaped my character and deepened my trust in Him. Looking back, I realize those moments mattered more than the big breaks. They built the foundation for everything else.

You Cannot Serve God and Money

The passage ends with a clear and sobering statement: “No servant can serve two masters… You cannot serve God and money” (v.13). That hits deep.

Money is a powerful tool, but it’s also a dangerous master. In our culture—especially in urban centers like Makati—money often becomes an idol. We chase it for security, status, or even identity. But Jesus reminds us: you can only have one true Master.

I’ve had to ask myself hard questions over the years. Am I using money to serve God, or am I using God to get more money? Is my financial life aligned with Kingdom values, or am I just dressing up materialism with spiritual language?

Eternal ROI

Luke 16 reminds me that money is temporary but stewardship is eternal. I want to be a wise and faithful steward—not perfect, but intentional. I want to use every peso, every opportunity, and every season to honor God and invest in what matters to Him.

We all have resources, no matter how limited. The question is: are we managing them with eternity in mind?

When I teach financial literacy, I don’t just want people to be debt-free or financially independent—though those are worthy goals. I want them to see money the way Jesus does: as a tool for faithfulness, generosity, and Kingdom impact.

May we all be found faithful stewards, shrewd for the right reasons, and rich in what truly matters.