The Christian faith is filled with paradoxes that require deep trust in God’s wisdom. One of the most profound is the principle of “already but not yet.” This concept is woven throughout Scripture, shaping our understanding of God’s Kingdom, salvation, and ultimate redemption.

Jesus Himself declared, “The time is fulfilled, and the kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel” (Mark 1:15, ESV). With Christ’s first coming, the Kingdom of God has indeed broken into human history. Through His life, death, and resurrection, we now experience the grace and power of the Gospel, transformed as new creations in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Yet, despite this reality, the world remains in brokenness. Sin, suffering, and injustice persist. Paul expresses this tension well: “For the creation waits with eager longing for the revealing of the sons of God” (Romans 8:19, ESV). While we are already redeemed, we still await the full realization of that redemption when Christ returns. The final victory over sin and death is certain, but we are in the in-between—living in the present reality of God’s reign while anticipating the fullness of His promises.

This paradox affects every aspect of our walk. We experience the Holy Spirit’s power now, yet we still struggle against sin. We proclaim the Gospel boldly, yet we see many reject it. We know Christ reigns as King, yet we await the day every knee will bow (Philippians 2:10-11).

Living in this tension requires faith, patience, and perseverance. It means holding onto hope, knowing that while we may face trials, our present suffering is not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed (Romans 8:18). It means walking in obedience, not just looking forward to eternity but also being salt and light in the world today.

This principle also applies to work and personal finance. As believers, we are called to be diligent and faithful stewards of the resources and opportunities entrusted to us. Proverbs 21:5 reminds us, “The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.” While we may not see immediate financial rewards or career advancements, we trust that our labor in the Lord is never in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58).

Moreover, financial wisdom calls us to live with an eternal perspective. While we build wealth and provide for our families, we recognize that true security comes not from earthly riches but from our relationship with Christ (Matthew 6:19-20). The “already here but not yet” principle teaches us to balance contentment in our present work with a hopeful anticipation of what God is still doing in and through us.

This principle also extends to family life, discipleship, and church community. In our families, we experience the joy of God’s love, yet we still struggle with imperfections and conflicts. As we raise children or nurture relationships, we rely on God’s grace, knowing that He is continually at work in our homes (Deuteronomy 6:6-7).

Discipleship follows a similar pattern—we grow in faith and help others do the same, yet we know that maturity in Christ is a lifelong journey (Philippians 1:6). The church community, too, embodies this paradox. It is a place of encouragement and worship, yet it remains a gathering of imperfect people striving toward holiness. We are called to love, serve, and build one another up as we anticipate the perfect unity we will one day share in eternity (Hebrews 10:24-25).

This principle reminds me that my calling is both present and future. God’s work in my life is ongoing—sanctifying me daily, preparing me for the day when faith becomes sight. Until then, I press on, embracing both the already of Christ’s victory and the not yet of its completion, longing for the day when He will make all things new (Revelation 21:5).

Come, Lord Jesus.

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.

As a financial educator and a believer, I often hear the claim that “Jesus spoke more about money than anything else.” In fact, I may have said that a few times in the past… sorry Lord. It’s a statement that has been widely circulated in sermons, financial seminars, and even in the pulpit. But is it actually true? A closer look at Scripture, with proper understanding, reveals a different story. While Jesus certainly spoke about money, wealth, and possessions, His primary focus was on the Kingdom of God and our relationship with Him. However, that does not mean we cannot learn powerful financial principles from His teachings.

What Did Jesus Actually Teach About the Most?

If we study the Gospels carefully, Jesus’ dominant message is about the Kingdom of God. Time and again, He speaks of God’s rule, righteousness, and how people should align their lives with His will. Topics like faith, love, grace, repentance, and eternal life are central to His teachings.

Money and wealth, though frequently mentioned, are often used as illustrations rather than the main subject of His messages. Consider the parables of the mustard seed (Matthew 13:31-32) and the lost sheep (Luke 15:3-7). These teachings are about faith, redemption, and God’s relentless pursuit of His people, rather than financial management.

Why Do People Think Jesus Spoke About Money the Most?

There are certainly many passages where Jesus addresses financial matters. Approximately 16 out of His 38 recorded parables mention money or possessions. He speaks about giving (Mark 12:41-44), stewardship (Luke 16:1-13), and warns against greed (Luke 12:15-21). Because money is interwoven into so many of His teachings, it’s easy to assume that it was His primary topic.

However, quantity does not always equate to priority. Jesus used money as an accessible analogy because it was something people in every era could understand. He knew that wealth could either be a tool for good or an obstacle to faith. When He warned that “You cannot serve both God and money” (Matthew 6:24), He wasn’t saying that money is inherently evil—rather, He was teaching that our ultimate loyalty should belong to God alone.

What Financial Lessons Can We Learn From Jesus’ Teachings?

While Jesus did not focus exclusively on money, His words offer incredible wisdom for how we should handle it. Here are some key lessons:

1. Money is a Heart Issue

In Matthew 6:21, Jesus says, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” This reminds us that our financial choices reflect what we truly value. If we prioritize wealth above all else, it can lead us away from God. But if we use our financial resources wisely and generously, we demonstrate our trust in Him.

2. Stewardship Over Ownership

Jesus’ parables about money often emphasize stewardship rather than ownership. In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), He illustrates that everything we have is entrusted to us by God, and we are called to use it wisely. This challenges us to be responsible with our finances—whether through saving, investing, or giving.

3. Contentment is Greater Than Wealth

One of Jesus’ most countercultural teachings is found in Luke 12:15: “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” In a world that constantly tells us to chase more, Jesus reminds us that true fulfillment isn’t found in material wealth but in a life aligned with God’s purpose.

4. Generosity is a Reflection of Faith

Jesus consistently taught the importance of generosity. Whether it was the widow’s offering (Mark 12:41-44) or the command to give without expecting in return (Luke 6:38), He made it clear that a giving heart reflects a trust in God’s provision. Financially, this means practicing tithing, charitable giving, and helping those in need as an act of worship.

5. Wealth Can Be a Blessing or a Barrier

Jesus never condemned wealth itself, but He did warn against its dangers. The story of the rich young ruler (Mark 10:17-27) demonstrates how attachment to riches can hinder our spiritual journey. This doesn’t mean that being wealthy is wrong, but it challenges us to ask: Is my money serving God, or is it controlling me?

Final thoughts

While the claim that Jesus spoke about money more than anything else is an exaggeration, there’s no denying that His teachings contain profound financial wisdom. Jesus may not be a financial advisor, but He understood the human heart—and He knew that money would always be a major factor in our lives.

The true lesson from Jesus isn’t just about money management; it’s about trust, priorities, and our relationship with God. Whether we have little or much, we are called to be faithful stewards, generous givers, and people who find our ultimate security not in wealth, but in Him.

So let’s learn from Jesus—not just to be better with money, but to be richer in faith, character, and purpose… and most importantly that He is our Lord and Savior.