Profit With A Purpose

The Scripture says, “You must not muzzle an ox to keep it from eating as it treads out the grain.” And in another place, “Those who work deserve their pay!”

1 Timothy 5:18

ONE OF THE BIGGEST MISCONCEPTIONS in contemporary culture, even among many Christians, is that there is something inherently evil in turning a profit. The Bible warns against making wealth an idol (1 Timothy 6:10), but it doesn’t discourage the responsible accumulation of wealth by God’s people.

Scripture may not make a clear case for capitalism, but it is apparent that some capitalist principles are rooted in a biblical worldview. For instance, Scripture encourages us to work hard for honest wages (2 Thessalonians 3:10; 1 Timothy 5:18); to create goods that enrich others (Proverbs 11:25); to buy and sell and make a profit (Proverbs 31:16-24; Leviticus 25:14); and to responsibly invest our resources (Luke 19:11-26; Proverbs 11:24). We’re also told to support our families (1 Timothy 5:8).

Wealth, like any of God’s good gifts, can easily become an idol, hence the many warnings against a full-fledged pursuit of money at the expense of a life focused on knowing God. Materialism and greed can sap our spiritual life (1 Timothy 6:17-18). Indifference to the poor is a denial of the gospel (James 2:14-20). So we should hold our wealth loosely, but we shouldn’t feel bad if hard work and thrift result in financial gain. We can prayerfully use that gain to bless our family and give to others.

BOTTOM LINE

It’s not a sin to have wealth. It’s a sin for wealth to have you.

Moment of Strength: 1 Timothy 6:17-18