Finance learnings from Book of Proverbs
As a personal finance coach, I have spent years teaching the principles of wise money management. But long before financial literacy became a buzzword, the Bible already provided profound wisdom on handling wealth. One of the richest sources of financial guidance is the Book of Proverbs. These timeless teachings not only address financial matters but also provide a foundation for living a life of wisdom and integrity. Here are some essential personal finance lessons we can draw from Proverbs.
1. Work diligently and avoid laziness.
“Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest.” (Proverbs 6:6-8)
The Bible repeatedly emphasizes the value of hard work and preparation. The ant, though small, is wise enough to store food in the summer for the coming seasons. This mirrors the importance of earning diligently and preparing for the future. Laziness and procrastination lead to financial distress, while diligence and responsibility bring financial security.
A good financial habit is setting aside a portion of our income for savings and investments. Instead of spending recklessly, let’s make it a practice to prepare for both foreseeable and unexpected financial needs.
2. Avoid debt and live within your means.
“The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender.” (Proverbs 22:7)
Debt can be a useful tool when managed wisely, but excessive borrowing can lead to financial bondage. When we become dependent on credit cards or loans for our lifestyle, we are essentially giving control of our finances to our lenders. Instead of living beyond our means, let’s adopt a lifestyle of contentment and stewardship.
A practical application of this is the 50-30-20 rule, where we allocate 50 percent of our income to necessities, 30 percent to discretionary spending and 20 percent to savings and investments. This approach helps ensure that we do not fall into the cycle of debt dependency.
3. Be generous and honor God with your wealth.
“Honor the Lord with your wealth, with the first fruits of all your crops; then your barns will be filled to overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.” (Proverbs 3:9-10)
Many of us work hard to accumulate wealth, but Proverbs remind us that our finances should also be used to honor God and bless others. Generosity is a biblical principle that leads to abundance. When we learn to give, whether to our church, charity or those in need, we cultivate a heart of gratitude and stewardship.
From a personal finance standpoint, tithing and charitable giving should be part of our budget. Not only does it enrich our spiritual life, but it also teaches us that money is a tool, not our master.
4. Seek wise counsel.
“Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” (Proverbs 15:22)
Financial decisions should never be made hastily. Seeking the advice of trusted financial mentors, planners or even experienced family members can help us make informed decisions. Many people have fallen into financial ruin because they acted on impulse rather than wisdom.
Before making major financial commitments—whether it’s an investment, business venture or real estate purchase—it’s best to seek guidance. Having an accountability partner for our finances can also help us stay on track with our goals.
5. Avoid get-rich-quick schemes.
“Wealth gained hastily will dwindle, but whoever gathers little by little will increase it.” (Proverbs 13:11)
We live in a time where many are enticed by quick gains—cryptocurrency fads, Ponzi schemes and other get-rich-quick ventures. Proverbs warn us against these shortcuts. True wealth is built over time through patience, discipline and wise investments.
The best way to build financial stability is through consistent and responsible investing. A diversified portfolio with stocks, bonds, unit investment trust funds, mutual funds and real estate can provide steady growth over time. Slow and steady wealth accumulation will always outweigh the risks of hasty decisions.
6. Practice integrity in financial matters.
“Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.” (Proverbs 13:11)
Integrity is at the core of financial stewardship. While the world may encourage unethical shortcuts to wealth, Proverbs teaches that honesty leads to lasting prosperity. Corrupt financial practices, even if they seem profitable in the short term, ultimately lead to ruin.
A financially wise person values honesty in business, work and personal dealings. We must strive for ethical earning and avoid the temptation to compromise our integrity for material gain.
Money is a powerful tool, but it should never be our master. Let’s work hard, be prudent with our spending, honor God with our wealth and use our financial resources to bless others. The Bible has already provided the best financial advice—we just need to live it out.
Randell Tiongson is a registered financial planner of RFP Philippines. To learn more about personal financial planning, join the 110th RFP program this March 2025. Email info@rfp.ph for details.
