Money is often called the “root of all evil” in popular culture, but the Bible actually provides a far more nuanced view. While it warns against the love of money, it does not condemn money itself. Instead, Scripture presents money as a tool—one that can be used for good or for harm depending on how we manage it and the attitude of our hearts.
“For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.”
— 1 Timothy 6:10 (ESV)
This verse highlights the crucial difference between money and our relationship to it. The biblical purpose of money goes far beyond just accumulating wealth; it is about stewardship, provision, generosity, and worship.
In this post, we’ll explore the key biblical purposes of money and how applying these principles can transform not just our finances but our entire approach to life.
One of the most basic purposes of money in the Bible is to provide for our own needs and the needs of those who depend on us. The Apostle Paul makes it clear in 1 Timothy 5:8:
“But if anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith and is worse than an unbeliever.”
Providing means more than just surviving—it means responsibly caring for family, ensuring food, shelter, clothing, education, and healthcare. This responsibility is sacred and part of living out our faith.
Without money, these basic needs are difficult to meet in the modern world. Money is the means God allows us to fulfill our duties and bless those closest to us.
Generosity is one of the most beautiful and emphasized biblical purposes for money. The Bible teaches us to be open-handed and ready to share with those in need.
Proverbs 19:17 declares:
“Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.”
Giving generously reflects God’s own generous heart toward us. It’s a way to participate in God’s work by caring for the poor, widows, orphans, and strangers. It also breaks the grip of selfishness and greed, reminding us that everything we have ultimately belongs to God.
The early church in the Book of Acts modeled this by sharing their possessions and supporting one another. Our giving creates community, fosters kindness, and honors God’s heart for justice.
Another biblical purpose of money is to support the advancement of God’s kingdom. This includes tithes and offerings given to the church, funding missionaries, supporting charitable ministries, and building resources that help spread the Gospel.
Malachi 3:10 challenges believers:
“Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test…”
When we give faithfully, we demonstrate trust in God’s provision. Supporting God’s work financially is an act of worship and partnership with Him in His mission on earth.
The Bible warns repeatedly about the dangers of loving money or being greedy. Jesus makes this clear in Matthew 6:24:
“No one can serve two masters… You cannot serve God and money.”
Money can easily become an idol—a substitute for God’s place in our hearts. This leads to anxiety, dissatisfaction, and destructive choices. The Bible encourages contentment and warns that chasing wealth often leads to ruin.
Hebrews 13:5 says:
“Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have…”
True wealth is found in a heart that trusts God rather than possessions.
Lastly, the Bible calls for wisdom and diligence in managing money. Proverbs 21:5 says:
“The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.”
Wise stewardship involves budgeting, saving, avoiding unnecessary debt, and making thoughtful financial decisions. Money should not be wasted or handled carelessly.
Jesus also commended faithful stewardship in the parable of the talents (Matthew 25:14-30), showing that God expects us to manage what He entrusts to us responsibly.
