Handling money in light of eternity

By Randell Tiongson on February 1st, 2025

Money is an unavoidable part of life. We earn it, spend it, save it, and sometimes worry about it. But as followers of Christ, we must ask ourselves: How should we handle money in light of eternity? If we truly believe that this life is temporary and that our true home is in heaven (Philippians 3:20), then our financial decisions should reflect that perspective.

1. Recognizing That God Owns Everything

The first step in handling money with an eternal perspective is acknowledging that everything we have belongs to God. Psalm 24:1 declares, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” This means we are merely stewards of the resources God has entrusted to us.

When we view our finances through this lens, we stop seeing money as something to hoard or obsess over. Instead, we begin asking, “How can I use what God has given me for His glory?” Whether through tithing, supporting missions, or helping those in need, our money should be used in ways that honor Him.

2. Storing Treasures in Heaven

Jesus gives us a direct command in Matthew 6:19-20: “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.” This doesn’t mean we shouldn’t save or invest, but it reminds us that accumulating wealth for its own sake is meaningless in the grand scheme of eternity.

The wealth we build on earth is temporary. Stocks crash, properties devalue, and inflation erodes our purchasing power. But when we invest in things of eternal value—supporting God’s work, being generous, and living righteously—we are storing up treasures that will never fade away.

3. Living with Contentment

One of the biggest financial pitfalls today is the endless pursuit of more—more income, more luxury, more status. But Paul reminds us in 1 Timothy 6:6-7, “But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.”

Contentment doesn’t mean complacency. It means learning to be grateful and responsible with what we have, rather than constantly chasing material wealth. I have met many people who have high incomes but are never satisfied, and I’ve also met those with modest means but a deep sense of joy and peace. The difference isn’t in their bank accounts—it’s in their hearts.

4. Being Generous and Trusting God’s Provision

The Bible repeatedly calls us to generosity. Proverbs 11:25 says, “A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.” When we give, whether to our church, charities, or individuals in need, we are participating in God’s work and reflecting His character.

But generosity requires faith. It means trusting that God will continue to provide for our needs (Matthew 6:31-33). It’s easy to hold on tightly to money, fearing we won’t have enough. But God calls us to trust Him, knowing that He is our ultimate provider.

5. Avoiding the Trap of Loving Money

Paul warns us in 1 Timothy 6:10, “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” Money itself is not evil—it is a tool. But when our desire for wealth overtakes our love for God, we are on dangerous ground.

How do we ensure money doesn’t become an idol? By regularly examining our hearts. Are we prioritizing wealth over our spiritual life? Are we making ethical financial decisions? Are we using money to bless others or only ourselves? These are hard questions, but they help keep our financial perspective aligned with eternity.

Using Money for God’s Glory

Handling money in light of eternity doesn’t mean neglecting financial wisdom. We should still budget, save, and invest responsibly. But it does mean shifting our perspective—seeing money as a tool for kingdom impact rather than just personal gain.

At the end of our lives, it won’t matter how much wealth we accumulated, but rather how we used it to serve God and others. So let’s handle our finances with eternity in mind—being faithful stewards, living with contentment, practicing generosity, and keeping our eyes fixed on things that truly last.

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Handling money in light of eternity