How a Bible verse transformed my approach to personal finance

Personal finance can be overwhelming. From trying to save for the future, paying off debt, navigating investment options and making sure there’s enough to cover daily expenses, it sometimes feels like a never-ending balancing act.

But over the years, I’ve found a perspective that has brought me not only peace but also purpose in managing my finances, and it comes from Matthew 6:33: “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”

READ: Why Biblical stewardship is a good financial decision

At first glance, this verse may not seem like it has much to do with money. But when I began applying it to how I handle my resources, everything changed.

Prioritizing God over money

I used to think financial security came from earning more, saving more and investing wisely. While those are important, they became my central focus. My heart was consumed with anxiety over whether I had enough or if I was doing enough. Matthew 6:33 made me realize that my priorities were out of order. Instead of trusting in money, I needed to trust in God.

What this verse taught me is that my primary focus shouldn’t be on my bank account, but on seeking God’s kingdom and His righteousness. When I realigned my priorities—putting God first—I discovered a deeper sense of peace in how I handled my money. This shift wasn’t about neglecting my financial responsibilities but about reordering them under God’s guidance.

Making faith the foundation of financial decisions

This change in focus impacted every aspect of how I manage my personal finances. First, it reminded me that everything I have comes from God. My income, savings and even my ability to earn are blessings that He has entrusted to me. That understanding gave me a new sense of stewardship over my finances. My goal was no longer to accumulate wealth for myself, but to use what I had in ways that aligned with God’s purposes.

READ: Savings, investing, giving and the Bible

This led to tangible changes in how I budgeted and spent. For example, giving became a priority. Whether it was tithing, supporting charities or helping others in need, I began to see giving as a way to partner with God in His work. Instead of feeling reluctant, I started giving cheerfully, knowing that God would continue to provide for me.

I also learned contentment. In a world that pushes us to want more, Matthew 6:33 reminds me that God will take care of my needs. I don’t need to chase after wealth or material things. This gave me the freedom to live more simply, to save with purpose, and to invest wisely but without obsession. I learned to trust that as long as I put God first, the rest would fall into place.

Freedom from financial anxiety

One of the biggest blessings of living out Matthew 6:33 in my personal finances has been freedom from worry. Like many people, I used to stress constantly about the future—whether I’d have enough for retirement or if an emergency would wipe out my savings. But this verse reminds me that God is my provider. If I seek Him first, He promises that all the things I need will be provided.

This doesn’t mean I live recklessly or ignore good financial habits. I still budget, save and plan. But now, I do it with a sense of trust rather than fear. I don’t have to carry the weight of the world on my shoulders, because I know God is in control.

A higher purpose for wealth

Finally, Matthew 6:33 has given me a new sense of purpose in how I view wealth. I no longer see money as an end-goal, but as a tool to accomplish something greater—God’s kingdom work. My financial decisions are guided by this higher purpose. Whether it’s supporting ministries, investing in opportunities that align with my values or simply being generous to those around me, I now use my resources in a way that reflects God’s priorities.

In the end, Matthew 6:33 isn’t just a spiritual verse for me; it’s a guiding principle for how I live and manage my finances. When I seek God first, everything else falls into place. My financial life is no longer driven by fear or the pursuit of wealth, but by faith, trust and a desire to honor God with all He’s given me.

So if you’re feeling overwhelmed by the demands of personal finance, I encourage you to take a step back and consider what it means to seek first God’s kingdom. You might just find the peace and purpose you’ve been looking for in managing your money. INQ

Randell Tiongson is a registered financial planner at RFP Philippines. To learn more about financial planning, attend the 109th RFP Program this Juanuary 2025. Email [email protected] or visit rfp.ph.