Money. It’s something we all deal with.
We use it to buy groceries, pay rent, go to the movies, and help others.
But as followers of Jesus, how we handle our money isn’t just about math or budgeting—it’s also about honoring God.
The Bible has a lot to say about money.
In fact, money is mentioned over 2,000 times in the Bible—more than prayer or even faith.
That’s because God knows money can easily take control of our hearts if we’re not careful.
Let’s take a light-hearted, but serious look at some of the top money mistakes Christians should avoid, and what we can do instead to manage our finances in a way that’s both smart and godly.
1. Thinking “It’s All Mine”
The Mistake:
A common trap is thinking, “I earned this money. I can spend it however I want.”
But that kind of thinking leaves God out of the picture.
We are only stewards of what God has given us and we need to treat our finances that way.
Think of yourself as an accountant for a fortune 500 company and God is the CEO.
You will eventually need to justify your use of funds so manage your bank account wisely.
The Truth:
Psalm 24:1 says, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it.” That includes your money, your stuff, and even your talents.
We are not owners—we’re stewards (or managers) of what God gives us.
What to Do Instead:
Ask yourself, “How can I use this money in a way that honors God?” Whether it’s buying a meal for someone in need or saving for your future, remember that everything you have is a gift from Him.
2. Not Giving at All
The Mistake:
Some people think they need to be rich to start giving. Others say, “I’ll give once I’m out of debt,” or “God knows I can’t afford it right now.”
That’s the wrong thinking.
Giving is a requirement and keeps our hearts tender and empathetic.
The Truth:
Giving isn’t about how much you have—it’s about trusting God with what you do have.
In Mark 12:41–44, Jesus praises a poor widow who gave two small coins because she gave out of her heart and out of her poverty.
What to Do Instead:
Start small if you need to. Even giving $1 a week to your church or a ministry counts. The point is to build a habit of generosity. God can do a lot with a little when we give it to Him.
*NOTE: This is giving on top of tithing. Tithing is giving 10% to the church and is non-negotiable.
Not only is it required, it is also the only place in scripture I know of where God invites us to test Him and offers a promise to go with it.
Malachi 3:10-18 NIV. Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this,” says the LORD Almighty, “and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that there will not be room enough to store it.
3. Living Without a Budget
The Mistake:
Ever looked at your bank account and thought, “Where did all my money go?”
That’s life without a budget. It’s like driving without a map—you’re probably going to get lost.
The Truth:
Luke 14:28 talks about planning ahead: “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost?”
God wants us to be wise with our money.
What to Do Instead:
A budget is simply a plan for your money. It tells every dollar where to go—whether it’s groceries, gas, or giving. Apps like EveryDollar or Mint make it easy, or you can use good ol’ pen and paper.
If you need help with this, check out our article on how AI can help with budgeting.
4. Trying to Impress Others
The Mistake:
Buying things to look cool—whether it’s the latest iPhone, brand-name shoes, or a fancy car—is a trap.
Social media makes it worse because we see other people’s “highlight reels” and want to keep up.
Not to mention, comparison is the enemy of joy.
The Truth:
Proverbs 13:7 warns, “One person pretends to be rich, yet has nothing.”
It’s better to live within your means than to go broke trying to look wealthy.
What to Do Instead:
Be content.
Philippians 4:11–12 teaches us to be content in all situations.
Your identity isn’t found in your stuff—it’s found in Christ.
Spend wisely and don’t try to “flex” for approval.
5. Ignoring Debt
The Mistake:
Many people think debt is just a normal part of life—credit cards, student loans, car payments, and more.
But debt can become a trap that’s hard to escape.
Fun fact, I messed up early in life.
My wife and I had to file bankruptcy and that cured me of using credit card debt.
Just take that option off the table or you’ll never be financially free.
The Truth:
Proverbs 22:7 says, “The borrower is slave to the lender.”
That’s some strong language.
Debt limits your ability to give, save, and enjoy peace of mind.
What to Do Instead:
Avoid new debt as much as possible.
If you’re already in debt, make a plan to pay it off.
Focus on the smallest debt first (this is called the “debt snowball” method), and build momentum as you go.
6. Forgetting to Save
The Mistake:
It’s tempting to spend every dollar you get.
But if you don’t save, you’re not ready for emergencies or the future.
That is one way people get sucked into credit card debt.
There is an “emergency” and they haven’t saved or planned for it.
The Truth:
Proverbs 21:20 says, “The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.”
Translation? Wise people save; foolish people spend it all.
What to Do Instead:
Start an emergency fund.
Aim for $500 to $1,000 at first.
Eventually, work toward saving 3–6 months of expenses. Saving is a way to honor God by being prepared.
7. Not Talking About Money (Especially in Marriage)
The Mistake:
A lot of couples avoid talking about money.
It can feel awkward or lead to arguments.
But staying silent doesn’t make the problems go away.
The Truth:
Amos 3:3 asks, “Can two walk together unless they agree?”
Healthy communication—especially about money—is key to unity in relationships.
That’s probably one reason it is mentioned so many times in the Bible.
What to Do Instead:
Talk regularly with your spouse (or even a trusted friend or mentor if you’re single).
Make shared goals. Pray over your finances together.
The more you communicate, the stronger your financial health will be.
8. Getting Rich Quick
The Mistake:
Whether it’s a sketchy investment, gambling, or a “too-good-to-be-true” business idea, many people try to get rich fast.
But fast money usually brings fast problems.
When God promised the Promised Land to the Israelites, He promised to give it to them “little by little”.
I believe He still works that way because slow progress is often healthy progress when it comes to money and success.
The Truth:
Proverbs 13:11 says, “Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.”
God honors steady, honest work.
Again we see in this verse the term “little by little”.
What to Do Instead:
Build wealth slowly.
Work hard, be honest, and save consistently.
There’s nothing wrong with success—just make sure it comes from integrity and effort, not shortcuts or shady deals.
9. Leaving God Out of Financial Decisions
The Mistake:
Sometimes we make big financial decisions—like buying a house or taking a new job—without even praying about it.
We rely on logic or feelings, but forget to include God.
God knows the future and can see the things we can’t see.
The Truth:
Proverbs 3:5–6 reminds us, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart… in all your ways submit to Him, and He will make your paths straight.”
God cares about all areas of your life—including your wallet.
What to Do Instead:
Pray before making financial decisions.
Ask God for wisdom, talk to wise counsel, and wait for peace before moving forward.
He’s more than willing to guide you.
10. Believing Money is Evil
The Mistake:
Some Christians think money itself is evil and should be avoided.
That’s not actually what the Bible says.
The Bible says the love of money is the real problem.
The Truth:
1 Timothy 6:10 says, “The love of money is the root of all kinds of evil,” not money itself.
It’s our attitude that matters.
What to Do Instead:
Use money as a tool to glorify God.
It can bless your family, serve others, support missions, and meet needs.
Money is neutral—it’s how you use it that counts.
11. Not Teaching the Next Generation
The Mistake:
Many adults never teach their kids or younger people about money.
As a result, teens grow up clueless about saving, giving, or staying out of debt.
The Truth:
Proverbs 22:6 says, “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.”
What to Do Instead:
Start the conversation early.
Teach kids to give from their allowance, to save up for things they want, and to understand the difference between needs and wants.
Model wise habits—they’re always watching.
This is something I need to do better of.
The truth is, our kids see how we live.
Specific conversation is important (and it’s something I need to focus on), but how you manage your money is just as important and maybe more important.
Kids see how we live more than what we say.
So live out biblically sound financial principles and your kids will hopefully carry those on into their own lives.
Final Thoughts: Money Is a Heart Issue
At the end of the day, how we handle money isn’t just about numbers—it’s about the heart.
Jesus said, “Where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:21).
If we treasure God above all else, it’ll show in how we spend, save, and give.
You don’t need to be perfect.
Just take one step at a time.
Start budgeting.
Begin giving.
Tackle that debt.
And most of all, invite God into every part of your financial journey.
Money isn’t the goal—God is. When He’s at the center, even our dollars and cents can bring Him glory.
Quick Recap: Top Money Mistakes to Avoid
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Thinking it’s all yours
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Not giving
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Not budgeting
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Trying to impress others
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Ignoring debt
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Forgetting to save
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Not talking about money
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Trying to get rich
Related Articles with Scripture & Quotes:
– Benefits of Wise Budgeting
– Bible Verses About Wealth & Prosperity
God Bless,
Jason and Daniele
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