The Bible offers wisdom on how we should view material things. While possessions can bring comfort, it’s important to remember their role in our spiritual lives. Let’s explore some key verses that help us keep a healthy balance between the material and the spiritual.
Bible Verses About Material Things
Matthew 6:19-21
“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
This passage challenges us to evaluate our priorities. It can be easy to prioritize material wealth, yet Jesus reminds us that such treasures are fleeting. True value lies in spiritual investments, which are eternal.
Jesus emphasizes that our hearts follow our treasures. If we treasure material things, our hearts will be anchored in the ephemeral. We should aim to invest in heavenly treasures by living righteously and serving others.
1 Timothy 6:10
“For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”
This verse speaks strongly about the downfalls of prioritizing money. It clarifies that it is not money itself, but the love of money that leads to evil. When we prioritize wealth over faith, we risk losing ourselves.
Personally, I have found that pursuing money can lead to a hollow existence, devoid of meaningful relationships and spiritual growth. This verse advises us to keep our priorities aligned with God’s will.
Hebrews 13:5
“Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have, because God has said, ‘Never will I leave you; never will I forsake you.’”
Contentment is a recurring theme in the Bible. This verse dovetails with others in urging us to avoid the love of money. Why? Because God’s presence and promise are infinitely more valuable than any material wealth.
God’s assurance that He will never leave us means that we don’t need to seek fulfillment in material things. We can find true contentment in His unwavering presence and abundant provision.
Proverbs 11:4
“Wealth is worthless in the day of wrath, but righteousness delivers from death.”
This verse from Proverbs highlights the temporality of wealth compared to the eternal value of righteousness. Material things offer no security in the face of divine judgment. It is our righteous living that safeguards us.
When I meditate on this, I am reminded to focus less on accumulating wealth and more on cultivating a righteous character that pleases God. No amount of money can buy favor with God.
Ecclesiastes 5:10
“Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless.”
Solomon, the wisest man, tells us about the insatiable nature of craving wealth. The love for material things leaves us continuously longing for more, never achieving true satisfaction.
It can feel like a vicious cycle of always wanting more, only to find that it does not fulfill us. Solomon labels this pursuit as “meaningless,” urging us to redirect our desires toward meaningful, spiritual fulfillment.
Mark 8:36
“What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?”
Mark’s words pierce the illusion of material success. Is it worth it to obtain all earthly possessions at the cost of our souls? This rhetorical question serves as a stern warning against prioritizing the temporary over the eternal.
Earthly gains are insignificant when compared to the invaluable gift of our soul. It is a powerful reminder to value our spiritual wellbeing over material achievements.
Luke 12:15
“Then he said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.’”
Jesus explicitly warns us against greed, illustrating that life is not about what we own. This calls us to be vigilant, recognizing and resisting the tendency to equate material abundance with a meaningful life.
It is a reminder that true value lies not in accumulating possessions, but in how we live, love and contribute to God’s kingdom.
Proverbs 23:4-5
“Do not wear yourself out to get rich; do not trust your own cleverness. Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle.”
These verses illustrate the fleeting nature of riches. They caution against wearing ourselves out in pursuit of wealth, reminding us that material riches are temporary and can easily vanish.
It encourages me to reevaluate my efforts and focus more on eternal aspects rather than pursuing temporary wealth. Trusting in God’s provision rather than our own cleverness brings lasting peace.
Matthew 6:24
“No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.”
Jesus addresses the impossibility of serving both God and money. A divided heart can’t be fully devoted to two masters. This verse forces us to choose our loyalty.
In my experience, attempting to balance both has only led to frustration and spiritual stagnation. Choosing God over material wealth paves the way for genuine spiritual growth and peace.
Proverbs 16:16
“How much better to get wisdom than gold, to get insight rather than silver!”
This Proverb emphasizes the superiority of wisdom and understanding over material wealth. It encourages us to seek spiritual and intellectual growth over the accumulation of riches.
We are reminded that wisdom guides us in making godly decisions, enriching our lives in ways that material wealth never could. Investing in spiritual wisdom brings lasting benefits beyond the temporal gains of silver and gold.
1 John 2:15-17
“Do not love the world or anything in the world. If anyone loves the world, love for the Father is not in them. For everything in the world—the lust of the flesh, the lust of the eyes, and the pride of life—comes not from the Father but from the world. The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever.”
John warns against the allure of worldly things, illustrating that love for the world negates love for the Father. The fleeting nature of worldly desires is contrasted with the eternal reward of doing God’s will.
This reminder helps anchor our priorities in eternal matters. We are urged to overcome worldly temptations and focus on living out God’s will for an everlasting impact.
1 Chronicles 29:11-12
“Yours, Lord, is the greatness and the power and the glory and the majesty and the splendor, for everything in heaven and earth is yours. Yours, Lord, is the kingdom; you are exalted as head over all. Wealth and honor come from you; you are the ruler of all things. In your hands are strength and power to exalt and give strength to all.”
This passage acknowledges God as the ultimate owner and giver of all things. It reminds us that any wealth or honor we have comes not from our own efforts, but from God’s generosity.
Recognizing God’s sovereignty diminishes our attachment to material things, leading us to a posture of gratitude and stewardship rather than entitlement.
Philippians 4:12-13
“I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength.”
Paul’s testimony teaches us the profound lesson of contentment. Regardless of our material circumstances, we can find strength and satisfaction in Christ.
I find inspiration in Paul’s words, especially during times of financial uncertainty. It assures me that true contentment is achievable through reliance on Christ’s strength.
Luke 12:34
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Jesus succinctly states the relationship between our treasures and our hearts. The location of our treasure determines the direction of our hearts.
It prompts a heart check, encouraging us to invest in things that matter eternally. Wherever our treasure is, our heart will naturally follow, so let’s place our treasure in God and His kingdom.
Proverbs 28:20
“A faithful person will be richly blessed, but one eager to get rich will not go unpunished.”
This proverb contrasts the outcomes of faithfulness and the eagerness to get rich. A faithful life leads to blessings while pursuing quick riches leads to downfall.
Focusing on faithfulness and integrity, rather than shortcuts to wealth, ensures a spiritually prosperous life. It reassures me that God honors a life lived in honesty and loyalty.
Matthew 6:33
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
Jesus prioritizes the pursuit of God’s kingdom over material needs. He assures us that if we focus on righteousness and God’s will, our material needs will be taken care of.
This verse encourages me to place my trust in God rather than in material security. Seeking God first brings holistic fulfillment, meeting both our spiritual and material needs.
2 Corinthians 9:8
“And God is able to bless you abundantly, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.”
This verse emphasizes God’s provision and generosity. God equips us with everything we need, enabling us to excel in good works.
It comforts me knowing that divine provision equips us to serve and bless others effectively. God’s abundant blessings are meant for us to extend His love and grace through our actions.
James 2:5
“Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?”
James highlights the paradox of divine choice: God often chooses the worldly poor to be spiritually rich. Their faith and inheritance in God’s kingdom surpass the value of material wealth.
This perspective shifts our focus from earthly status to spiritual richness. It challenges societal perceptions of poverty, emphasizing spiritual wealth as the true measure of success in God’s eyes.
Proverbs 15:16
“Better a little with the fear of the Lord than great wealth with turmoil.”
This proverb underscores the relative value of a God-fearing life over material wealth. It’s better to have less accompanied by reverence for God than to have abundant wealth filled with inner turmoil.
It reinforces the idea that peace and divine favor are superior to material abundance. Even with less, a life rooted in reverence for God is far more fulfilling and peaceful.
Colossians 3:2
“Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”
This verse from Colossians urges us to focus our thoughts and desires on spiritual rather than earthly matters. It calls us to elevate our perspective, aligning it with heavenly priorities.
This mindset shift transforms how we view material possessions, encouraging us to invest in lasting, spiritual treasures rather than temporary, earthly ones.
Proverbs 22:1
“A good name is more desirable than great riches; to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.”
This proverb highlights the importance of integrity and reputation over material wealth. A good name and the respect of others hold more lasting value than transient riches.
In our lives, cultivating honor and a good reputation should take precedence over accumulating wealth. This fosters trust and respect, which are invaluable gifts in our relationships and communities.
Luke 16:13
“No servant can serve two masters. 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 both God and money.”
Jesus reiterates the impossibility of serving both God and money, highlighting the conflict this dual allegiance creates. We must choose where our true devotion lies.
Striving to balance both often leads to compromising our spiritual values. Our heart’s devotion must be undivided, prioritizing God over material wealth to truly follow Him.
Psalm 37:16-17
“Better the little that the righteous have than the wealth of many wicked; for the power of the wicked will be broken, but the Lord upholds the righteous.”
These verses from Psalms contrast the meager possessions of the righteous with the wealth of the wicked. In the end, the Lord sustains the righteous while the wicked’s power crumbles.
It reassures us that righteousness, even with little material wealth, holds eternal value. Divine support outweighs any temporary advantage that wicked wealth might provide.
Matthew 13:22
“The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful.”
Jesus describes how the distractions of life and the allure of wealth can stifle spiritual growth. These thorns prevent the word from flourishing in our hearts.
This parable urges us to guard our hearts against life’s worries and material desires. Prioritizing God’s word leads to spiritual fruitfulness and divine fulfillment.
Proverbs 10:22
“The blessing of the Lord brings wealth, without painful toil for it.”
This proverb highlights that true wealth comes as a blessing from the Lord, not through our relentless efforts. Divine blessing brings genuine prosperity.
It shifts my perspective from striving for wealth through personal effort to seeking God’s favor. With His blessing, prosperity comes without the toll of painful toil.
Malachi 3:10
“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.”
Malachi underscores the importance of tithing and God’s promise of abundant blessing in return. It’s one of the few places where God invites us to test His faithfulness.
Committing to tithe faithfully has opened doors for me in unexpected ways. God’s generosity surpasses our own, rewarding our faithfulness with abundant blessings.
Matthew 19:21
“Jesus answered, ‘If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.'”
Jesus challenges a rich man to sell his possessions and help the poor, promising heavenly treasures in exchange. It illustrates the necessity of sacrificing material wealth to fully follow Him.
This radical call to action highlights the importance of prioritizing spiritual over material wealth. Aligning our lives with generosity and compassion paves the way for eternal treasures.
Proverbs 3:9-10
“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.”
These verses emphasize honoring God with our material wealth. By giving the first fruits, we acknowledge His provision, and in return, He promises abundant blessings.
It encourages me to be generous and faithful in giving to God’s work, recognizing that honoring Him with our wealth opens doors for even greater blessings.
Deuteronomy 8:18
“But remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you the ability to produce wealth, and so confirms his covenant, which he swore to your ancestors, as it is today.”
Moses reminds the Israelites that their ability to produce wealth comes from God. This recognition keeps us humble and grateful, attributing our success to divine intervention.
Whenever I achieve any financial success, I remind myself that it is God’s blessing and empowerment that makes it possible, fostering a spirit of gratitude and humility.
Also Read: Bible Verses About Judging Others Righteously
What Does the Bible Say About Material Things?
When we examine the scriptures, it’s evident that the Bible provides a multifaceted perspective on material things. While material possessions themselves are not inherently bad, our attitude towards them is what matters most.
Scripture advises us to be cautious about the love of money and possessions. In Matthew 6:19-21, we are encouraged to store up treasures in heaven, rather than on earth, as earthly treasures can deteriorate or be stolen. This heavenly treasure is comprised of spiritual wealth and righteous living rather than accumulating material goods.
The Bible underscores the principle of contentment. In 1 Timothy 6:6-10, we are reminded that godliness with contentment is great gain and that we bring nothing into the world and can take nothing out of it. Therefore, the pursuit of material wealth should not overshadow our quest for spiritual growth and eternal values.
Additionally, material wealth can be used for good when it serves a higher purpose. There are numerous instances where wealth is portrayed as a blessing from God, like in the case of King Solomon. However, it also comes with responsibility. Jesus highlighted the importance of using our resources to help others, often mentioning how the use of material wealth can impact our spiritual well-being. In Luke 12:15, He warns us to guard against all kinds of greed, suggesting a life that isn’t measured by the abundance of our possessions.
Moreover, the Bible promotes the notion of stewardship—being responsible caretakers of what we have. The Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25:14-30 illustrates the idea that we are entrusted with resources and are expected to use them wisely and diligently. This implies that material possessions are tools for good works, benefiting ourselves and others when used effectively.
While it’s perfectly fine to have material possessions, our ultimate focus should remain on eternal truths rather than earthly gains. Balancing our material and spiritual needs means recognizing the temporary nature of possessions and emphasizing values that sustain our spiritual life. This nuanced approach helps us maintain a healthy relationship with material things, ensuring they serve us, rather than us serving them.