30+ Bible Verses About Investing & Saving Money | Tithe.ly
Looking for Bible verses about investing & saving money? We'll highlight over 30 verses to help you understand what the Bible says. Read here!
Living on the edge is a phrase often tossed around as a joke in conversations.
But for most people in the United States, they’re living on the edge financially, and this isn’t a laughing matter.
According to a recent study by GOBankingRates, more than half of Americans (57%) have less than $1,000 in savings. Not only is this the case, but according to Bankrate, 57% of Americans also don’t have enough money saved to cover a $500 unexpected expense.
Not having enough money in the bank is more than a mathematical problem. A lack of savings can also cause significant stress, which can lead to a host of problems, such as:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Weight-gain/loss
- Lack of concentration
- Strained relationships
- Insomnia
- Substance abuse
- Heart disease
If you find yourself in this situation, know that you don’t carry your money burdens alone. In Christ, you can run into the open arms of your Heavenly Father who will lovingly embrace you, forgive you, and help you to get out of your situation.
Regardless if you’re in a financial mess or if you’re just interested in learning more about what the Bible says about saving and investing, you’re in the right place.
In this post, we’re going to walk through several points and questions, including:
- What does it mean to save?
- Ready to save? Remember this first
- What does the Bible say about saving money?
- What does it mean to invest?
- Verses about investing in God’s Kingdom
- What does the Bible say about investing?
- How much should I save and invest?
Alright, let’s take a look at over 30 passages regarding your money!
What does it mean to save?
Saving includes reducing expenses and setting aside money for future expenses.
For your household budget, you can save money by reducing your expenses. From cutting the cable to limiting the number of times you eat out or buy coffee, there are countless ways you can save your money.
What is more, there are many things in life you will not be able to pay for with cash or on an impulse—like buying a home. You’ll need to make a plan to save money and set aside how much you’ll need.
There are many reasons why you may need to save money. But here are common things you may need to set aside cash for in the future:
- Emergency funds
- Retirement
- Education
- Down payment for a house
- Vacations
- Larger purchases
Saving money isn’t complicated in theory. But saving money for the future can be challenging. From overspending and financial setbacks to incurring a massive amount of debt and simply just not making enough money, there are a variety of hurdles you’ll have to overcome potentially.
As a follower of Christ, knowing what scripture says about saving is essential to managing your financial resources. Stewardship in the Bible is one of the most prevalent themes in the Bible, and for good reasons, too. How we manage our money is a thermostat in our relationship with our Lord Jesus .
Ready to save? Remember this first
Before you read the passages about saving money below, cut back your expenses, or set aside another dollar, it’s essential to remember this about money:
Worship with your wealth, but don’t worship your wealth.
This phrase is more than a punchy platitude. This phrase is rooted in the Apostle Paul’s words to Timothy: “As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy” (1 Tim. 6:17, emphasis mine).
The evil of money is no respecter of persons, and the temptation to sin with money is not reserved for the rich alone. Yes, you may be tempted by the seduction of success and always want more, but you may also fall victim to desiring (coveting) what others have.
In both of these scenarios above, hope is misplaced in money and possessions, and not in God. There’s a big difference between the two, and your bank statements will give you a non-judgmental view of your heart.
Now, even though we shouldn’t worship wealth, God leads us to worship with our wealth.
From tithing in the Bible to talking about stewardship, God has revealed his will for the way he would like to manage our money for his glory and our good.
When it comes to these passages , God doesn’t hold back. Instead, he provides a ton of practical and relevant advice we can follow to save and invest our money well.
What does the Bible say about saving money?
There is great practical advice about saving money in Bible verses. You're not going to find a hidden secret to saving money you can unlock to gain untold riches. But you’ll learn everything you need to know and more to manage your money well.
We put together 20 scriptures on saving money that will guide you in your finances.
#1. Plan for your future
In Genesis 41:34-36, we read, "Let Pharaoh proceed to appoint overseers over the land and take one-fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt during the seven plentiful years. And let them gather all the food of these good years that are coming and store up grain under the authority of Pharaoh for food in the cities, and let them keep it. That food shall be a reserve for the land against the seven years of famine that are to occur in the land of Egypt, so that the land may not perish through the famine.”
In this passage, God revealed to Joseph that Egypt was going to experience a significant famine. The availability of food was going to be scarce, and, if they didn’t plan for this event, the people of Egypt would starve.
God will most likely not provide you with such a clear picture of your future like he did for Joseph and Egypt. But what we see in passages about saving money is God’s will for us to save for our future, which includes expenses we should expect, like college and retirement, as well as costs we didn’t plan for, like a car breaking down or fixing a leak in your house’s roof.
To help you prepare for your future, here’s what the Bible says about saving money and planning:
Proverbs 3:5-6:
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
Proverbs 6:6-8:
"Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise. Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest.”
Proverbs 13:16:
"Every prudent man acts with knowledge, but a fool flaunts his folly.”
Proverbs 21:5:
"The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.”
Proverbs 24:27:
"Prepare your work outside; get everything ready for yourself in the field, and after that build your house.”
Luke 14:28:
"For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?”
Philippians 4:6:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
#2. Be diligent
Saving for your future doesn’t happen by accident.
If you have a fever to save money, you don’t need more cowbells.
What you need is diligence.
In other words, you not only need to make a plan to save for the future, but you have to work your plan consistently. Basically, you have to cut expenses and set aside money in some sort of fund.
In passages about saving money, God often contrasts diligent people with lazy people.
In general, the diligent person—who we should exemplify—is spoken of favorably by God and is the person who gets ahead financially.
When it comes to talking about laziness, God doesn’t mince words. What we’ll observe in the scriptures about saving money below, God uses strong words to confront people who struggle with being idle, and he lets it be known that not working is one sure way you’ll end up in poverty.
Proverbs 10:4-5:
"A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes the rich . He who gathers in summer is a prudent son, but he who sleeps in harvest is a son who brings shame.”
Proverbs 21:5:
"The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.”
#3. Save consistently
One key found in passages about being smart with money is consistency.
When it comes to saving money, consistently setting aside something every month (even if you think it’s little) can lead you to reap huge benefits in the future—especially if you start at an early age—thanks in large part to something that’s called compound interest.
As you prepare to save, feel free to start small. Fight the pressure of making big changes or not feeling like you should save at all if you can't set aside as much as you would like.
Proverbs 13:11:
"Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.”
Proverbs 28:20:
“A faithful man will abound with blessings, But whoever hastens to be rich will not go unpunished."
1 Corinthians 16:2
"On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come."
#4. Save paycheck-to-paycheck
In a recent survey by CareerBuilder, the vast majority of Americans (78%) live paycheck-to-paycheck.
For some of you reading this, you may not really be able to do anything else at the moment. From just getting started in your career to simply not making enough money, there are different reasons why you have to live check-to-check and don’t have enough money leftover at the end of the month to save.
Now, for others reading this post, you’re just spending too much money. American credit card debt is more than $1 trillion, and according to one study, Americans said their worst financial habit was "spending too much on things they don’t need.”
Another essential lesson we can learn from passages about saving money and Bible verses about debt is to spend less and save more. So, instead of spending paycheck-to-paycheck, make plans to save paycheck-to-paycheck.
Proverbs 21:20:
"Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man’s dwelling, but a foolish man devours it."
Proverbs 22:7:
“The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower is the slave of the lender.”
Isaiah 55:2:
“Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy? Listen diligently to me, and eat what is good, and delight yourselves in rich food.”
Luke 12:15:
“And he said to them, ‘Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”
Romans 13:8:
“Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law."
Hebrews 13:5:
“Keep your life free from the love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’"
What does it mean to invest?
The idea of investing money is easy: You contribute money to an account or endeavor with the goal of making a profit.
There are several ways you can invest your money, but that’s not the goal of this post. In these Bible passages , we observe similar cautions as above, practical advice, and a new concept: Investing in God’s Kingdom.
Before we dive into the practical advice, let’s take a moment to review what it has to say about investing in God’s Kingdom, which is another essential lesson on stewardship in the Bible you don’t want to miss.
Investing in God's kingdom
In the verses below, we’ll see that this does include being generous with our money. But we’ll also see that it is not limited to what we do with our money alone.
The Bible says that we will receive “rewards” for a variety of reasons. From facing persecution (2 Tim. 4:8) to serving Jesus (Heb. 6:10), God will reward his disciples with treasures in heaven.
So, yes, be generous with your money by investing in God’s Kingdom through supporting your local church and tending to those in need, but also seek to live your life for the glory of God and the good of others.
Matthew 6:19-20:
“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.”
Matthew 10:41-42:
“The one who receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and the one who received a righteous person because he is a right person will receive a right person’s reward. And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will be no means lose his reward."
Luke 12:33-34:
"Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
1 Corinthians 3:8:
"He who plants and he who waters are one, and each will receive his wages according to his labor.”
1 Corinthians 15:58:
"Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain."
1 Timothy 6:17-19
"As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life."
2 John 1:8
"Watch yourselves, so that you may not lose what we have worked for, but may win a full reward."
What does the Bible say about investing?
To invest is not about accumulating wealth for the sake of financial gain alone. We are called to be good stewards of the resources we gather, and to invest our money for our present and future needs is one part of being a good steward.
Below are 10 Bible verses about investing. Don’t think of these as biblical investment strategies per se. Instead, consider them like beacons of light pointing you in the right direction.
#1. Honor the LORD
Regardless of where you fall in your belief about tithing in the Bible.
As a disciple of Christ, you will be transformed into a generous giver. In your investments, fight the temptation to invest solely in yourself, and remember to honor the LORD who has given you the ability to create wealth.
Proverbs 3:9-10:
"Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the first fruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.”
Malachi 3:10:
"Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the LORD of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.”
Matthew 6:24:
“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money."
#2. Seek professional advice
The Internet provides instant access to many free articles you can read, videos you can watch, or advice you can listen to about using your money. After consuming several resources about financial management, you'll be more informed about your money. But this doesn’t mean that you’re necessarily qualified as an expert financial advisor.
When it comes to investing your money, you have access to tools to do it yourself, and this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. However, the Bible does encourage us to seek advice from trusted and experienced advisors who can help us to invest our money wisely.
Proverbs 12:15:
"The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice."
Proverbs 13:13:
"Whoever despises the word brings destruction on himself, but he who reveres the commandment will be rewarded."
Proverbs 15:22:
"Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.”
#3. Avoid get-rich-quick schemes
Coming into a lot of money may sound nice on the surface, and it may be a blessing, but there are really no positive examples of gaining wealth quickly in the Bible. For most people who come into a lot of money overnight, such as an inheritance, lawsuit, or gambling, may not have the ability to manage the funds they receive well.
Avoid get-rich-quick schemes like the plague, and don’t concern yourself with becoming wealthy overnight. Follow the principles of saving and investing consistently, and you’ll be well on your way to setting you and your family well financially.
Proverbs 28:20:
"A faithful man will abound with blessings, but whoever hastens to be rich will not go unpunished.”
#4. Diversify your investments
You’ve probably heard it said before, “Don’t place all of your eggs in one basket.” Diversifying your income and investments is a good way you can protect yourself from financial ruin or losing everything if one thing doesn’t work out.
Ecclesiastes 11:2:
"Give a portion to seven, or even to eight, for you know not what disaster may happen on earth.”
#5. Glorify God in your investments
Does the investment you want to make glorify God? Or is what you’re about to do dishonor the LORD?
To help you think through your decision, here are some questions you can ask:
- Is there anything about your investment considered sinful by the Bible (2 Tim. 3:16)?
- Is there deception involved with your investment (Prov. 11:1)?
- Can you—with a clear conscience—ask God to bless your investment?
To the best of your ability, strive to glorify God in what you invest your money into.
1 Corinthians 10:31:
"So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
Colossians 3:17:
"And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
How much should I save and invest?
Honestly, I don’t know, and I think I’m legally obligated not to say.
After you study the passages listed above, you’ll be well on your way to understanding some of the best financial management practices.
To figure out how much money you should specifically save and invest to meet your goals, it’s best to seek the advice of a trusted financial advisor. He or she will be able to point you in the right direction.
In the meantime, I hope this article helps you to work through how you save and invest your money.
Check out these additional Bible verse posts
For additional encouraging Bible verses and Bible verse posts, check out these resources:
- 100+ Encouraging Bible Verses & Religious Quotes
- 100 Bible Verses about Prayer and Praying
- 36 Bible Verses about Dads For Father’s Day
- Love You Forever, Mom | Bible Verses About Mothers and Mother's Day
- 100+ Thanksgiving Bible Verses That Will Make You Thankful
- 19 Critical Bible Verses on Greed: Explained, Applied, and Illustrated
- Bible Verses About Mothers for Mother’s Day
- Bible Verses About Debt to Proactively Grow
- 29 Inspirational Christmas Quotes & Christmas Bible Verses
- Bible Verses About Money & Possessions
- 100+ Thanksgiving Bible Verses That Will Make You Thankful
- Build Your Business on Faith: 55 Bible Verses About Business
- A Biblical Decision-Making Guide: 100 Bible Verses About Making Choices
- 30+ Bible Verses About Saving Money and Investing
- 67 Inspiring Bible Verses About Love and Marriage
- Tithing in the Bible: 100+ Scriptures about Giving and Generosity
- Build Your Business on Faith: 55 Bible Verses About Business
- Bible Verses About Work & Working for God
- Bible Study Topics for Small Groups +Tips on Hosting a Church Small Group
- New Testament Books of the Bible: What You Need to Know
- “The Unforgivable Sin”: A Definitive Guide
- 26 Bible Verses About Technology
- 197 Inspirational Quotes & Bible Verses
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Jesse Wisnewski likes to think of himself as one part marketer, one part team builder, and equal parts family man. He has held marketing roles at PhoneBurner, Tithe.ly, HarperCollins Christian Publishing, B&H Publishing Group, and a large nonprofit. When he's not immersed in marketing, he's chasing around his kids with his wife, grilling, exercising, and trying to be active members of their local church, as well.
Living on the edge is a phrase often tossed around as a joke in conversations.
But for most people in the United States, they’re living on the edge financially, and this isn’t a laughing matter.
According to a recent study by GOBankingRates, more than half of Americans (57%) have less than $1,000 in savings. Not only is this the case, but according to Bankrate, 57% of Americans also don’t have enough money saved to cover a $500 unexpected expense.
Not having enough money in the bank is more than a mathematical problem. A lack of savings can also cause significant stress, which can lead to a host of problems, such as:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Weight-gain/loss
- Lack of concentration
- Strained relationships
- Insomnia
- Substance abuse
- Heart disease
If you find yourself in this situation, know that you don’t carry your money burdens alone. In Christ, you can run into the open arms of your Heavenly Father who will lovingly embrace you, forgive you, and help you to get out of your situation.
Regardless if you’re in a financial mess or if you’re just interested in learning more about what the Bible says about saving and investing, you’re in the right place.
In this post, we’re going to walk through several points and questions, including:
- What does it mean to save?
- Ready to save? Remember this first
- What does the Bible say about saving money?
- What does it mean to invest?
- Verses about investing in God’s Kingdom
- What does the Bible say about investing?
- How much should I save and invest?
Alright, let’s take a look at over 30 passages regarding your money!
What does it mean to save?
Saving includes reducing expenses and setting aside money for future expenses.
For your household budget, you can save money by reducing your expenses. From cutting the cable to limiting the number of times you eat out or buy coffee, there are countless ways you can save your money.
What is more, there are many things in life you will not be able to pay for with cash or on an impulse—like buying a home. You’ll need to make a plan to save money and set aside how much you’ll need.
There are many reasons why you may need to save money. But here are common things you may need to set aside cash for in the future:
- Emergency funds
- Retirement
- Education
- Down payment for a house
- Vacations
- Larger purchases
Saving money isn’t complicated in theory. But saving money for the future can be challenging. From overspending and financial setbacks to incurring a massive amount of debt and simply just not making enough money, there are a variety of hurdles you’ll have to overcome potentially.
As a follower of Christ, knowing what scripture says about saving is essential to managing your financial resources. Stewardship in the Bible is one of the most prevalent themes in the Bible, and for good reasons, too. How we manage our money is a thermostat in our relationship with our Lord Jesus .
Ready to save? Remember this first
Before you read the passages about saving money below, cut back your expenses, or set aside another dollar, it’s essential to remember this about money:
Worship with your wealth, but don’t worship your wealth.
This phrase is more than a punchy platitude. This phrase is rooted in the Apostle Paul’s words to Timothy: “As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy” (1 Tim. 6:17, emphasis mine).
The evil of money is no respecter of persons, and the temptation to sin with money is not reserved for the rich alone. Yes, you may be tempted by the seduction of success and always want more, but you may also fall victim to desiring (coveting) what others have.
In both of these scenarios above, hope is misplaced in money and possessions, and not in God. There’s a big difference between the two, and your bank statements will give you a non-judgmental view of your heart.
Now, even though we shouldn’t worship wealth, God leads us to worship with our wealth.
From tithing in the Bible to talking about stewardship, God has revealed his will for the way he would like to manage our money for his glory and our good.
When it comes to these passages , God doesn’t hold back. Instead, he provides a ton of practical and relevant advice we can follow to save and invest our money well.
What does the Bible say about saving money?
There is great practical advice about saving money in Bible verses. You're not going to find a hidden secret to saving money you can unlock to gain untold riches. But you’ll learn everything you need to know and more to manage your money well.
We put together 20 scriptures on saving money that will guide you in your finances.
#1. Plan for your future
In Genesis 41:34-36, we read, "Let Pharaoh proceed to appoint overseers over the land and take one-fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt during the seven plentiful years. And let them gather all the food of these good years that are coming and store up grain under the authority of Pharaoh for food in the cities, and let them keep it. That food shall be a reserve for the land against the seven years of famine that are to occur in the land of Egypt, so that the land may not perish through the famine.”
In this passage, God revealed to Joseph that Egypt was going to experience a significant famine. The availability of food was going to be scarce, and, if they didn’t plan for this event, the people of Egypt would starve.
God will most likely not provide you with such a clear picture of your future like he did for Joseph and Egypt. But what we see in passages about saving money is God’s will for us to save for our future, which includes expenses we should expect, like college and retirement, as well as costs we didn’t plan for, like a car breaking down or fixing a leak in your house’s roof.
To help you prepare for your future, here’s what the Bible says about saving money and planning:
Proverbs 3:5-6:
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
Proverbs 6:6-8:
"Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise. Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest.”
Proverbs 13:16:
"Every prudent man acts with knowledge, but a fool flaunts his folly.”
Proverbs 21:5:
"The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.”
Proverbs 24:27:
"Prepare your work outside; get everything ready for yourself in the field, and after that build your house.”
Luke 14:28:
"For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?”
Philippians 4:6:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
#2. Be diligent
Saving for your future doesn’t happen by accident.
If you have a fever to save money, you don’t need more cowbells.
What you need is diligence.
In other words, you not only need to make a plan to save for the future, but you have to work your plan consistently. Basically, you have to cut expenses and set aside money in some sort of fund.
In passages about saving money, God often contrasts diligent people with lazy people.
In general, the diligent person—who we should exemplify—is spoken of favorably by God and is the person who gets ahead financially.
When it comes to talking about laziness, God doesn’t mince words. What we’ll observe in the scriptures about saving money below, God uses strong words to confront people who struggle with being idle, and he lets it be known that not working is one sure way you’ll end up in poverty.
Proverbs 10:4-5:
"A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes the rich . He who gathers in summer is a prudent son, but he who sleeps in harvest is a son who brings shame.”
Proverbs 21:5:
"The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.”
#3. Save consistently
One key found in passages about being smart with money is consistency.
When it comes to saving money, consistently setting aside something every month (even if you think it’s little) can lead you to reap huge benefits in the future—especially if you start at an early age—thanks in large part to something that’s called compound interest.
As you prepare to save, feel free to start small. Fight the pressure of making big changes or not feeling like you should save at all if you can't set aside as much as you would like.
Proverbs 13:11:
"Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.”
Proverbs 28:20:
“A faithful man will abound with blessings, But whoever hastens to be rich will not go unpunished."
1 Corinthians 16:2
"On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come."
#4. Save paycheck-to-paycheck
In a recent survey by CareerBuilder, the vast majority of Americans (78%) live paycheck-to-paycheck.
For some of you reading this, you may not really be able to do anything else at the moment. From just getting started in your career to simply not making enough money, there are different reasons why you have to live check-to-check and don’t have enough money leftover at the end of the month to save.
Now, for others reading this post, you’re just spending too much money. American credit card debt is more than $1 trillion, and according to one study, Americans said their worst financial habit was "spending too much on things they don’t need.”
Another essential lesson we can learn from passages about saving money and Bible verses about debt is to spend less and save more. So, instead of spending paycheck-to-paycheck, make plans to save paycheck-to-paycheck.
Proverbs 21:20:
"Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man’s dwelling, but a foolish man devours it."
Proverbs 22:7:
“The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower is the slave of the lender.”
Isaiah 55:2:
“Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy? Listen diligently to me, and eat what is good, and delight yourselves in rich food.”
Luke 12:15:
“And he said to them, ‘Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”
Romans 13:8:
“Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law."
Hebrews 13:5:
“Keep your life free from the love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’"
What does it mean to invest?
The idea of investing money is easy: You contribute money to an account or endeavor with the goal of making a profit.
There are several ways you can invest your money, but that’s not the goal of this post. In these Bible passages , we observe similar cautions as above, practical advice, and a new concept: Investing in God’s Kingdom.
Before we dive into the practical advice, let’s take a moment to review what it has to say about investing in God’s Kingdom, which is another essential lesson on stewardship in the Bible you don’t want to miss.
Investing in God's kingdom
In the verses below, we’ll see that this does include being generous with our money. But we’ll also see that it is not limited to what we do with our money alone.
The Bible says that we will receive “rewards” for a variety of reasons. From facing persecution (2 Tim. 4:8) to serving Jesus (Heb. 6:10), God will reward his disciples with treasures in heaven.
So, yes, be generous with your money by investing in God’s Kingdom through supporting your local church and tending to those in need, but also seek to live your life for the glory of God and the good of others.
Matthew 6:19-20:
“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.”
Matthew 10:41-42:
“The one who receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and the one who received a righteous person because he is a right person will receive a right person’s reward. And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will be no means lose his reward."
Luke 12:33-34:
"Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
1 Corinthians 3:8:
"He who plants and he who waters are one, and each will receive his wages according to his labor.”
1 Corinthians 15:58:
"Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain."
1 Timothy 6:17-19
"As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life."
2 John 1:8
"Watch yourselves, so that you may not lose what we have worked for, but may win a full reward."
What does the Bible say about investing?
To invest is not about accumulating wealth for the sake of financial gain alone. We are called to be good stewards of the resources we gather, and to invest our money for our present and future needs is one part of being a good steward.
Below are 10 Bible verses about investing. Don’t think of these as biblical investment strategies per se. Instead, consider them like beacons of light pointing you in the right direction.
#1. Honor the LORD
Regardless of where you fall in your belief about tithing in the Bible.
As a disciple of Christ, you will be transformed into a generous giver. In your investments, fight the temptation to invest solely in yourself, and remember to honor the LORD who has given you the ability to create wealth.
Proverbs 3:9-10:
"Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the first fruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.”
Malachi 3:10:
"Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the LORD of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.”
Matthew 6:24:
“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money."
#2. Seek professional advice
The Internet provides instant access to many free articles you can read, videos you can watch, or advice you can listen to about using your money. After consuming several resources about financial management, you'll be more informed about your money. But this doesn’t mean that you’re necessarily qualified as an expert financial advisor.
When it comes to investing your money, you have access to tools to do it yourself, and this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. However, the Bible does encourage us to seek advice from trusted and experienced advisors who can help us to invest our money wisely.
Proverbs 12:15:
"The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice."
Proverbs 13:13:
"Whoever despises the word brings destruction on himself, but he who reveres the commandment will be rewarded."
Proverbs 15:22:
"Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.”
#3. Avoid get-rich-quick schemes
Coming into a lot of money may sound nice on the surface, and it may be a blessing, but there are really no positive examples of gaining wealth quickly in the Bible. For most people who come into a lot of money overnight, such as an inheritance, lawsuit, or gambling, may not have the ability to manage the funds they receive well.
Avoid get-rich-quick schemes like the plague, and don’t concern yourself with becoming wealthy overnight. Follow the principles of saving and investing consistently, and you’ll be well on your way to setting you and your family well financially.
Proverbs 28:20:
"A faithful man will abound with blessings, but whoever hastens to be rich will not go unpunished.”
#4. Diversify your investments
You’ve probably heard it said before, “Don’t place all of your eggs in one basket.” Diversifying your income and investments is a good way you can protect yourself from financial ruin or losing everything if one thing doesn’t work out.
Ecclesiastes 11:2:
"Give a portion to seven, or even to eight, for you know not what disaster may happen on earth.”
#5. Glorify God in your investments
Does the investment you want to make glorify God? Or is what you’re about to do dishonor the LORD?
To help you think through your decision, here are some questions you can ask:
- Is there anything about your investment considered sinful by the Bible (2 Tim. 3:16)?
- Is there deception involved with your investment (Prov. 11:1)?
- Can you—with a clear conscience—ask God to bless your investment?
To the best of your ability, strive to glorify God in what you invest your money into.
1 Corinthians 10:31:
"So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
Colossians 3:17:
"And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
How much should I save and invest?
Honestly, I don’t know, and I think I’m legally obligated not to say.
After you study the passages listed above, you’ll be well on your way to understanding some of the best financial management practices.
To figure out how much money you should specifically save and invest to meet your goals, it’s best to seek the advice of a trusted financial advisor. He or she will be able to point you in the right direction.
In the meantime, I hope this article helps you to work through how you save and invest your money.
Check out these additional Bible verse posts
For additional encouraging Bible verses and Bible verse posts, check out these resources:
- 100+ Encouraging Bible Verses & Religious Quotes
- 100 Bible Verses about Prayer and Praying
- 36 Bible Verses about Dads For Father’s Day
- Love You Forever, Mom | Bible Verses About Mothers and Mother's Day
- 100+ Thanksgiving Bible Verses That Will Make You Thankful
- 19 Critical Bible Verses on Greed: Explained, Applied, and Illustrated
- Bible Verses About Mothers for Mother’s Day
- Bible Verses About Debt to Proactively Grow
- 29 Inspirational Christmas Quotes & Christmas Bible Verses
- Bible Verses About Money & Possessions
- 100+ Thanksgiving Bible Verses That Will Make You Thankful
- Build Your Business on Faith: 55 Bible Verses About Business
- A Biblical Decision-Making Guide: 100 Bible Verses About Making Choices
- 30+ Bible Verses About Saving Money and Investing
- 67 Inspiring Bible Verses About Love and Marriage
- Tithing in the Bible: 100+ Scriptures about Giving and Generosity
- Build Your Business on Faith: 55 Bible Verses About Business
- Bible Verses About Work & Working for God
- Bible Study Topics for Small Groups +Tips on Hosting a Church Small Group
- New Testament Books of the Bible: What You Need to Know
- “The Unforgivable Sin”: A Definitive Guide
- 26 Bible Verses About Technology
- 197 Inspirational Quotes & Bible Verses
podcast transcript
Jesse Wisnewski likes to think of himself as one part marketer, one part team builder, and equal parts family man. He has held marketing roles at PhoneBurner, Tithe.ly, HarperCollins Christian Publishing, B&H Publishing Group, and a large nonprofit. When he's not immersed in marketing, he's chasing around his kids with his wife, grilling, exercising, and trying to be active members of their local church, as well.
Living on the edge is a phrase often tossed around as a joke in conversations.
But for most people in the United States, they’re living on the edge financially, and this isn’t a laughing matter.
According to a recent study by GOBankingRates, more than half of Americans (57%) have less than $1,000 in savings. Not only is this the case, but according to Bankrate, 57% of Americans also don’t have enough money saved to cover a $500 unexpected expense.
Not having enough money in the bank is more than a mathematical problem. A lack of savings can also cause significant stress, which can lead to a host of problems, such as:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Weight-gain/loss
- Lack of concentration
- Strained relationships
- Insomnia
- Substance abuse
- Heart disease
If you find yourself in this situation, know that you don’t carry your money burdens alone. In Christ, you can run into the open arms of your Heavenly Father who will lovingly embrace you, forgive you, and help you to get out of your situation.
Regardless if you’re in a financial mess or if you’re just interested in learning more about what the Bible says about saving and investing, you’re in the right place.
In this post, we’re going to walk through several points and questions, including:
- What does it mean to save?
- Ready to save? Remember this first
- What does the Bible say about saving money?
- What does it mean to invest?
- Verses about investing in God’s Kingdom
- What does the Bible say about investing?
- How much should I save and invest?
Alright, let’s take a look at over 30 passages regarding your money!
What does it mean to save?
Saving includes reducing expenses and setting aside money for future expenses.
For your household budget, you can save money by reducing your expenses. From cutting the cable to limiting the number of times you eat out or buy coffee, there are countless ways you can save your money.
What is more, there are many things in life you will not be able to pay for with cash or on an impulse—like buying a home. You’ll need to make a plan to save money and set aside how much you’ll need.
There are many reasons why you may need to save money. But here are common things you may need to set aside cash for in the future:
- Emergency funds
- Retirement
- Education
- Down payment for a house
- Vacations
- Larger purchases
Saving money isn’t complicated in theory. But saving money for the future can be challenging. From overspending and financial setbacks to incurring a massive amount of debt and simply just not making enough money, there are a variety of hurdles you’ll have to overcome potentially.
As a follower of Christ, knowing what scripture says about saving is essential to managing your financial resources. Stewardship in the Bible is one of the most prevalent themes in the Bible, and for good reasons, too. How we manage our money is a thermostat in our relationship with our Lord Jesus .
Ready to save? Remember this first
Before you read the passages about saving money below, cut back your expenses, or set aside another dollar, it’s essential to remember this about money:
Worship with your wealth, but don’t worship your wealth.
This phrase is more than a punchy platitude. This phrase is rooted in the Apostle Paul’s words to Timothy: “As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy” (1 Tim. 6:17, emphasis mine).
The evil of money is no respecter of persons, and the temptation to sin with money is not reserved for the rich alone. Yes, you may be tempted by the seduction of success and always want more, but you may also fall victim to desiring (coveting) what others have.
In both of these scenarios above, hope is misplaced in money and possessions, and not in God. There’s a big difference between the two, and your bank statements will give you a non-judgmental view of your heart.
Now, even though we shouldn’t worship wealth, God leads us to worship with our wealth.
From tithing in the Bible to talking about stewardship, God has revealed his will for the way he would like to manage our money for his glory and our good.
When it comes to these passages , God doesn’t hold back. Instead, he provides a ton of practical and relevant advice we can follow to save and invest our money well.
What does the Bible say about saving money?
There is great practical advice about saving money in Bible verses. You're not going to find a hidden secret to saving money you can unlock to gain untold riches. But you’ll learn everything you need to know and more to manage your money well.
We put together 20 scriptures on saving money that will guide you in your finances.
#1. Plan for your future
In Genesis 41:34-36, we read, "Let Pharaoh proceed to appoint overseers over the land and take one-fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt during the seven plentiful years. And let them gather all the food of these good years that are coming and store up grain under the authority of Pharaoh for food in the cities, and let them keep it. That food shall be a reserve for the land against the seven years of famine that are to occur in the land of Egypt, so that the land may not perish through the famine.”
In this passage, God revealed to Joseph that Egypt was going to experience a significant famine. The availability of food was going to be scarce, and, if they didn’t plan for this event, the people of Egypt would starve.
God will most likely not provide you with such a clear picture of your future like he did for Joseph and Egypt. But what we see in passages about saving money is God’s will for us to save for our future, which includes expenses we should expect, like college and retirement, as well as costs we didn’t plan for, like a car breaking down or fixing a leak in your house’s roof.
To help you prepare for your future, here’s what the Bible says about saving money and planning:
Proverbs 3:5-6:
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
Proverbs 6:6-8:
"Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise. Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest.”
Proverbs 13:16:
"Every prudent man acts with knowledge, but a fool flaunts his folly.”
Proverbs 21:5:
"The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.”
Proverbs 24:27:
"Prepare your work outside; get everything ready for yourself in the field, and after that build your house.”
Luke 14:28:
"For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?”
Philippians 4:6:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
#2. Be diligent
Saving for your future doesn’t happen by accident.
If you have a fever to save money, you don’t need more cowbells.
What you need is diligence.
In other words, you not only need to make a plan to save for the future, but you have to work your plan consistently. Basically, you have to cut expenses and set aside money in some sort of fund.
In passages about saving money, God often contrasts diligent people with lazy people.
In general, the diligent person—who we should exemplify—is spoken of favorably by God and is the person who gets ahead financially.
When it comes to talking about laziness, God doesn’t mince words. What we’ll observe in the scriptures about saving money below, God uses strong words to confront people who struggle with being idle, and he lets it be known that not working is one sure way you’ll end up in poverty.
Proverbs 10:4-5:
"A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes the rich . He who gathers in summer is a prudent son, but he who sleeps in harvest is a son who brings shame.”
Proverbs 21:5:
"The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.”
#3. Save consistently
One key found in passages about being smart with money is consistency.
When it comes to saving money, consistently setting aside something every month (even if you think it’s little) can lead you to reap huge benefits in the future—especially if you start at an early age—thanks in large part to something that’s called compound interest.
As you prepare to save, feel free to start small. Fight the pressure of making big changes or not feeling like you should save at all if you can't set aside as much as you would like.
Proverbs 13:11:
"Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.”
Proverbs 28:20:
“A faithful man will abound with blessings, But whoever hastens to be rich will not go unpunished."
1 Corinthians 16:2
"On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come."
#4. Save paycheck-to-paycheck
In a recent survey by CareerBuilder, the vast majority of Americans (78%) live paycheck-to-paycheck.
For some of you reading this, you may not really be able to do anything else at the moment. From just getting started in your career to simply not making enough money, there are different reasons why you have to live check-to-check and don’t have enough money leftover at the end of the month to save.
Now, for others reading this post, you’re just spending too much money. American credit card debt is more than $1 trillion, and according to one study, Americans said their worst financial habit was "spending too much on things they don’t need.”
Another essential lesson we can learn from passages about saving money and Bible verses about debt is to spend less and save more. So, instead of spending paycheck-to-paycheck, make plans to save paycheck-to-paycheck.
Proverbs 21:20:
"Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man’s dwelling, but a foolish man devours it."
Proverbs 22:7:
“The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower is the slave of the lender.”
Isaiah 55:2:
“Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy? Listen diligently to me, and eat what is good, and delight yourselves in rich food.”
Luke 12:15:
“And he said to them, ‘Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”
Romans 13:8:
“Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law."
Hebrews 13:5:
“Keep your life free from the love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’"
What does it mean to invest?
The idea of investing money is easy: You contribute money to an account or endeavor with the goal of making a profit.
There are several ways you can invest your money, but that’s not the goal of this post. In these Bible passages , we observe similar cautions as above, practical advice, and a new concept: Investing in God’s Kingdom.
Before we dive into the practical advice, let’s take a moment to review what it has to say about investing in God’s Kingdom, which is another essential lesson on stewardship in the Bible you don’t want to miss.
Investing in God's kingdom
In the verses below, we’ll see that this does include being generous with our money. But we’ll also see that it is not limited to what we do with our money alone.
The Bible says that we will receive “rewards” for a variety of reasons. From facing persecution (2 Tim. 4:8) to serving Jesus (Heb. 6:10), God will reward his disciples with treasures in heaven.
So, yes, be generous with your money by investing in God’s Kingdom through supporting your local church and tending to those in need, but also seek to live your life for the glory of God and the good of others.
Matthew 6:19-20:
“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.”
Matthew 10:41-42:
“The one who receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and the one who received a righteous person because he is a right person will receive a right person’s reward. And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will be no means lose his reward."
Luke 12:33-34:
"Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
1 Corinthians 3:8:
"He who plants and he who waters are one, and each will receive his wages according to his labor.”
1 Corinthians 15:58:
"Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain."
1 Timothy 6:17-19
"As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life."
2 John 1:8
"Watch yourselves, so that you may not lose what we have worked for, but may win a full reward."
What does the Bible say about investing?
To invest is not about accumulating wealth for the sake of financial gain alone. We are called to be good stewards of the resources we gather, and to invest our money for our present and future needs is one part of being a good steward.
Below are 10 Bible verses about investing. Don’t think of these as biblical investment strategies per se. Instead, consider them like beacons of light pointing you in the right direction.
#1. Honor the LORD
Regardless of where you fall in your belief about tithing in the Bible.
As a disciple of Christ, you will be transformed into a generous giver. In your investments, fight the temptation to invest solely in yourself, and remember to honor the LORD who has given you the ability to create wealth.
Proverbs 3:9-10:
"Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the first fruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.”
Malachi 3:10:
"Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the LORD of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.”
Matthew 6:24:
“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money."
#2. Seek professional advice
The Internet provides instant access to many free articles you can read, videos you can watch, or advice you can listen to about using your money. After consuming several resources about financial management, you'll be more informed about your money. But this doesn’t mean that you’re necessarily qualified as an expert financial advisor.
When it comes to investing your money, you have access to tools to do it yourself, and this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. However, the Bible does encourage us to seek advice from trusted and experienced advisors who can help us to invest our money wisely.
Proverbs 12:15:
"The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice."
Proverbs 13:13:
"Whoever despises the word brings destruction on himself, but he who reveres the commandment will be rewarded."
Proverbs 15:22:
"Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.”
#3. Avoid get-rich-quick schemes
Coming into a lot of money may sound nice on the surface, and it may be a blessing, but there are really no positive examples of gaining wealth quickly in the Bible. For most people who come into a lot of money overnight, such as an inheritance, lawsuit, or gambling, may not have the ability to manage the funds they receive well.
Avoid get-rich-quick schemes like the plague, and don’t concern yourself with becoming wealthy overnight. Follow the principles of saving and investing consistently, and you’ll be well on your way to setting you and your family well financially.
Proverbs 28:20:
"A faithful man will abound with blessings, but whoever hastens to be rich will not go unpunished.”
#4. Diversify your investments
You’ve probably heard it said before, “Don’t place all of your eggs in one basket.” Diversifying your income and investments is a good way you can protect yourself from financial ruin or losing everything if one thing doesn’t work out.
Ecclesiastes 11:2:
"Give a portion to seven, or even to eight, for you know not what disaster may happen on earth.”
#5. Glorify God in your investments
Does the investment you want to make glorify God? Or is what you’re about to do dishonor the LORD?
To help you think through your decision, here are some questions you can ask:
- Is there anything about your investment considered sinful by the Bible (2 Tim. 3:16)?
- Is there deception involved with your investment (Prov. 11:1)?
- Can you—with a clear conscience—ask God to bless your investment?
To the best of your ability, strive to glorify God in what you invest your money into.
1 Corinthians 10:31:
"So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
Colossians 3:17:
"And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
How much should I save and invest?
Honestly, I don’t know, and I think I’m legally obligated not to say.
After you study the passages listed above, you’ll be well on your way to understanding some of the best financial management practices.
To figure out how much money you should specifically save and invest to meet your goals, it’s best to seek the advice of a trusted financial advisor. He or she will be able to point you in the right direction.
In the meantime, I hope this article helps you to work through how you save and invest your money.
Check out these additional Bible verse posts
For additional encouraging Bible verses and Bible verse posts, check out these resources:
- 100+ Encouraging Bible Verses & Religious Quotes
- 100 Bible Verses about Prayer and Praying
- 36 Bible Verses about Dads For Father’s Day
- Love You Forever, Mom | Bible Verses About Mothers and Mother's Day
- 100+ Thanksgiving Bible Verses That Will Make You Thankful
- 19 Critical Bible Verses on Greed: Explained, Applied, and Illustrated
- Bible Verses About Mothers for Mother’s Day
- Bible Verses About Debt to Proactively Grow
- 29 Inspirational Christmas Quotes & Christmas Bible Verses
- Bible Verses About Money & Possessions
- 100+ Thanksgiving Bible Verses That Will Make You Thankful
- Build Your Business on Faith: 55 Bible Verses About Business
- A Biblical Decision-Making Guide: 100 Bible Verses About Making Choices
- 30+ Bible Verses About Saving Money and Investing
- 67 Inspiring Bible Verses About Love and Marriage
- Tithing in the Bible: 100+ Scriptures about Giving and Generosity
- Build Your Business on Faith: 55 Bible Verses About Business
- Bible Verses About Work & Working for God
- Bible Study Topics for Small Groups +Tips on Hosting a Church Small Group
- New Testament Books of the Bible: What You Need to Know
- “The Unforgivable Sin”: A Definitive Guide
- 26 Bible Verses About Technology
- 197 Inspirational Quotes & Bible Verses
VIDEO transcript
Living on the edge is a phrase often tossed around as a joke in conversations.
But for most people in the United States, they’re living on the edge financially, and this isn’t a laughing matter.
According to a recent study by GOBankingRates, more than half of Americans (57%) have less than $1,000 in savings. Not only is this the case, but according to Bankrate, 57% of Americans also don’t have enough money saved to cover a $500 unexpected expense.
Not having enough money in the bank is more than a mathematical problem. A lack of savings can also cause significant stress, which can lead to a host of problems, such as:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Weight-gain/loss
- Lack of concentration
- Strained relationships
- Insomnia
- Substance abuse
- Heart disease
If you find yourself in this situation, know that you don’t carry your money burdens alone. In Christ, you can run into the open arms of your Heavenly Father who will lovingly embrace you, forgive you, and help you to get out of your situation.
Regardless if you’re in a financial mess or if you’re just interested in learning more about what the Bible says about saving and investing, you’re in the right place.
In this post, we’re going to walk through several points and questions, including:
- What does it mean to save?
- Ready to save? Remember this first
- What does the Bible say about saving money?
- What does it mean to invest?
- Verses about investing in God’s Kingdom
- What does the Bible say about investing?
- How much should I save and invest?
Alright, let’s take a look at over 30 passages regarding your money!
What does it mean to save?
Saving includes reducing expenses and setting aside money for future expenses.
For your household budget, you can save money by reducing your expenses. From cutting the cable to limiting the number of times you eat out or buy coffee, there are countless ways you can save your money.
What is more, there are many things in life you will not be able to pay for with cash or on an impulse—like buying a home. You’ll need to make a plan to save money and set aside how much you’ll need.
There are many reasons why you may need to save money. But here are common things you may need to set aside cash for in the future:
- Emergency funds
- Retirement
- Education
- Down payment for a house
- Vacations
- Larger purchases
Saving money isn’t complicated in theory. But saving money for the future can be challenging. From overspending and financial setbacks to incurring a massive amount of debt and simply just not making enough money, there are a variety of hurdles you’ll have to overcome potentially.
As a follower of Christ, knowing what scripture says about saving is essential to managing your financial resources. Stewardship in the Bible is one of the most prevalent themes in the Bible, and for good reasons, too. How we manage our money is a thermostat in our relationship with our Lord Jesus .
Ready to save? Remember this first
Before you read the passages about saving money below, cut back your expenses, or set aside another dollar, it’s essential to remember this about money:
Worship with your wealth, but don’t worship your wealth.
This phrase is more than a punchy platitude. This phrase is rooted in the Apostle Paul’s words to Timothy: “As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy” (1 Tim. 6:17, emphasis mine).
The evil of money is no respecter of persons, and the temptation to sin with money is not reserved for the rich alone. Yes, you may be tempted by the seduction of success and always want more, but you may also fall victim to desiring (coveting) what others have.
In both of these scenarios above, hope is misplaced in money and possessions, and not in God. There’s a big difference between the two, and your bank statements will give you a non-judgmental view of your heart.
Now, even though we shouldn’t worship wealth, God leads us to worship with our wealth.
From tithing in the Bible to talking about stewardship, God has revealed his will for the way he would like to manage our money for his glory and our good.
When it comes to these passages , God doesn’t hold back. Instead, he provides a ton of practical and relevant advice we can follow to save and invest our money well.
What does the Bible say about saving money?
There is great practical advice about saving money in Bible verses. You're not going to find a hidden secret to saving money you can unlock to gain untold riches. But you’ll learn everything you need to know and more to manage your money well.
We put together 20 scriptures on saving money that will guide you in your finances.
#1. Plan for your future
In Genesis 41:34-36, we read, "Let Pharaoh proceed to appoint overseers over the land and take one-fifth of the produce of the land of Egypt during the seven plentiful years. And let them gather all the food of these good years that are coming and store up grain under the authority of Pharaoh for food in the cities, and let them keep it. That food shall be a reserve for the land against the seven years of famine that are to occur in the land of Egypt, so that the land may not perish through the famine.”
In this passage, God revealed to Joseph that Egypt was going to experience a significant famine. The availability of food was going to be scarce, and, if they didn’t plan for this event, the people of Egypt would starve.
God will most likely not provide you with such a clear picture of your future like he did for Joseph and Egypt. But what we see in passages about saving money is God’s will for us to save for our future, which includes expenses we should expect, like college and retirement, as well as costs we didn’t plan for, like a car breaking down or fixing a leak in your house’s roof.
To help you prepare for your future, here’s what the Bible says about saving money and planning:
Proverbs 3:5-6:
"Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
Proverbs 6:6-8:
"Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise. Without having any chief, officer, or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest.”
Proverbs 13:16:
"Every prudent man acts with knowledge, but a fool flaunts his folly.”
Proverbs 21:5:
"The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.”
Proverbs 24:27:
"Prepare your work outside; get everything ready for yourself in the field, and after that build your house.”
Luke 14:28:
"For which of you, desiring to build a tower, does not first sit down and count the cost, whether he has enough to complete it?”
Philippians 4:6:
“Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God.”
#2. Be diligent
Saving for your future doesn’t happen by accident.
If you have a fever to save money, you don’t need more cowbells.
What you need is diligence.
In other words, you not only need to make a plan to save for the future, but you have to work your plan consistently. Basically, you have to cut expenses and set aside money in some sort of fund.
In passages about saving money, God often contrasts diligent people with lazy people.
In general, the diligent person—who we should exemplify—is spoken of favorably by God and is the person who gets ahead financially.
When it comes to talking about laziness, God doesn’t mince words. What we’ll observe in the scriptures about saving money below, God uses strong words to confront people who struggle with being idle, and he lets it be known that not working is one sure way you’ll end up in poverty.
Proverbs 10:4-5:
"A slack hand causes poverty, but the hand of the diligent makes the rich . He who gathers in summer is a prudent son, but he who sleeps in harvest is a son who brings shame.”
Proverbs 21:5:
"The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.”
#3. Save consistently
One key found in passages about being smart with money is consistency.
When it comes to saving money, consistently setting aside something every month (even if you think it’s little) can lead you to reap huge benefits in the future—especially if you start at an early age—thanks in large part to something that’s called compound interest.
As you prepare to save, feel free to start small. Fight the pressure of making big changes or not feeling like you should save at all if you can't set aside as much as you would like.
Proverbs 13:11:
"Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.”
Proverbs 28:20:
“A faithful man will abound with blessings, But whoever hastens to be rich will not go unpunished."
1 Corinthians 16:2
"On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper, so that there will be no collecting when I come."
#4. Save paycheck-to-paycheck
In a recent survey by CareerBuilder, the vast majority of Americans (78%) live paycheck-to-paycheck.
For some of you reading this, you may not really be able to do anything else at the moment. From just getting started in your career to simply not making enough money, there are different reasons why you have to live check-to-check and don’t have enough money leftover at the end of the month to save.
Now, for others reading this post, you’re just spending too much money. American credit card debt is more than $1 trillion, and according to one study, Americans said their worst financial habit was "spending too much on things they don’t need.”
Another essential lesson we can learn from passages about saving money and Bible verses about debt is to spend less and save more. So, instead of spending paycheck-to-paycheck, make plans to save paycheck-to-paycheck.
Proverbs 21:20:
"Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man’s dwelling, but a foolish man devours it."
Proverbs 22:7:
“The rich rules over the poor, And the borrower is the slave of the lender.”
Isaiah 55:2:
“Why do you spend your money for that which is not bread, and your labor for that which does not satisfy? Listen diligently to me, and eat what is good, and delight yourselves in rich food.”
Luke 12:15:
“And he said to them, ‘Take care, and be on your guard against all covetousness, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.”
Romans 13:8:
“Owe no one anything, except to love each other, for the one who loves another has fulfilled the law."
Hebrews 13:5:
“Keep your life free from the love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’"
What does it mean to invest?
The idea of investing money is easy: You contribute money to an account or endeavor with the goal of making a profit.
There are several ways you can invest your money, but that’s not the goal of this post. In these Bible passages , we observe similar cautions as above, practical advice, and a new concept: Investing in God’s Kingdom.
Before we dive into the practical advice, let’s take a moment to review what it has to say about investing in God’s Kingdom, which is another essential lesson on stewardship in the Bible you don’t want to miss.
Investing in God's kingdom
In the verses below, we’ll see that this does include being generous with our money. But we’ll also see that it is not limited to what we do with our money alone.
The Bible says that we will receive “rewards” for a variety of reasons. From facing persecution (2 Tim. 4:8) to serving Jesus (Heb. 6:10), God will reward his disciples with treasures in heaven.
So, yes, be generous with your money by investing in God’s Kingdom through supporting your local church and tending to those in need, but also seek to live your life for the glory of God and the good of others.
Matthew 6:19-20:
“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.”
Matthew 10:41-42:
“The one who receives a prophet because he is a prophet will receive a prophet’s reward, and the one who received a righteous person because he is a right person will receive a right person’s reward. And whoever gives one of these little ones even a cup of cold water because he is a disciple, truly, I say to you, he will be no means lose his reward."
Luke 12:33-34:
"Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
1 Corinthians 3:8:
"He who plants and he who waters are one, and each will receive his wages according to his labor.”
1 Corinthians 15:58:
"Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain."
1 Timothy 6:17-19
"As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life."
2 John 1:8
"Watch yourselves, so that you may not lose what we have worked for, but may win a full reward."
What does the Bible say about investing?
To invest is not about accumulating wealth for the sake of financial gain alone. We are called to be good stewards of the resources we gather, and to invest our money for our present and future needs is one part of being a good steward.
Below are 10 Bible verses about investing. Don’t think of these as biblical investment strategies per se. Instead, consider them like beacons of light pointing you in the right direction.
#1. Honor the LORD
Regardless of where you fall in your belief about tithing in the Bible.
As a disciple of Christ, you will be transformed into a generous giver. In your investments, fight the temptation to invest solely in yourself, and remember to honor the LORD who has given you the ability to create wealth.
Proverbs 3:9-10:
"Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the first fruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.”
Malachi 3:10:
"Bring the full tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. And thereby put me to the test, says the LORD of hosts, if I will not open the windows of heaven for you and pour down for you a blessing until there is no more need.”
Matthew 6:24:
“No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and money."
#2. Seek professional advice
The Internet provides instant access to many free articles you can read, videos you can watch, or advice you can listen to about using your money. After consuming several resources about financial management, you'll be more informed about your money. But this doesn’t mean that you’re necessarily qualified as an expert financial advisor.
When it comes to investing your money, you have access to tools to do it yourself, and this isn’t necessarily a bad thing. However, the Bible does encourage us to seek advice from trusted and experienced advisors who can help us to invest our money wisely.
Proverbs 12:15:
"The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice."
Proverbs 13:13:
"Whoever despises the word brings destruction on himself, but he who reveres the commandment will be rewarded."
Proverbs 15:22:
"Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers they succeed.”
#3. Avoid get-rich-quick schemes
Coming into a lot of money may sound nice on the surface, and it may be a blessing, but there are really no positive examples of gaining wealth quickly in the Bible. For most people who come into a lot of money overnight, such as an inheritance, lawsuit, or gambling, may not have the ability to manage the funds they receive well.
Avoid get-rich-quick schemes like the plague, and don’t concern yourself with becoming wealthy overnight. Follow the principles of saving and investing consistently, and you’ll be well on your way to setting you and your family well financially.
Proverbs 28:20:
"A faithful man will abound with blessings, but whoever hastens to be rich will not go unpunished.”
#4. Diversify your investments
You’ve probably heard it said before, “Don’t place all of your eggs in one basket.” Diversifying your income and investments is a good way you can protect yourself from financial ruin or losing everything if one thing doesn’t work out.
Ecclesiastes 11:2:
"Give a portion to seven, or even to eight, for you know not what disaster may happen on earth.”
#5. Glorify God in your investments
Does the investment you want to make glorify God? Or is what you’re about to do dishonor the LORD?
To help you think through your decision, here are some questions you can ask:
- Is there anything about your investment considered sinful by the Bible (2 Tim. 3:16)?
- Is there deception involved with your investment (Prov. 11:1)?
- Can you—with a clear conscience—ask God to bless your investment?
To the best of your ability, strive to glorify God in what you invest your money into.
1 Corinthians 10:31:
"So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
Colossians 3:17:
"And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him."
How much should I save and invest?
Honestly, I don’t know, and I think I’m legally obligated not to say.
After you study the passages listed above, you’ll be well on your way to understanding some of the best financial management practices.
To figure out how much money you should specifically save and invest to meet your goals, it’s best to seek the advice of a trusted financial advisor. He or she will be able to point you in the right direction.
In the meantime, I hope this article helps you to work through how you save and invest your money.
Check out these additional Bible verse posts
For additional encouraging Bible verses and Bible verse posts, check out these resources:
- 100+ Encouraging Bible Verses & Religious Quotes
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- Love You Forever, Mom | Bible Verses About Mothers and Mother's Day
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- 29 Inspirational Christmas Quotes & Christmas Bible Verses
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- 100+ Thanksgiving Bible Verses That Will Make You Thankful
- Build Your Business on Faith: 55 Bible Verses About Business
- A Biblical Decision-Making Guide: 100 Bible Verses About Making Choices
- 30+ Bible Verses About Saving Money and Investing
- 67 Inspiring Bible Verses About Love and Marriage
- Tithing in the Bible: 100+ Scriptures about Giving and Generosity
- Build Your Business on Faith: 55 Bible Verses About Business
- Bible Verses About Work & Working for God
- Bible Study Topics for Small Groups +Tips on Hosting a Church Small Group
- New Testament Books of the Bible: What You Need to Know
- “The Unforgivable Sin”: A Definitive Guide
- 26 Bible Verses About Technology
- 197 Inspirational Quotes & Bible Verses
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Jesse Wisnewski likes to think of himself as one part marketer, one part team builder, and equal parts family man. He has held marketing roles at PhoneBurner, Tithe.ly, HarperCollins Christian Publishing, B&H Publishing Group, and a large nonprofit. When he's not immersed in marketing, he's chasing around his kids with his wife, grilling, exercising, and trying to be active members of their local church, as well.
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