Many of us spend time thinking about how to grow wealth, save for the future, or live comfortably. But Jesus challenges us to consider a different question:
Are you rich toward God?
This phrase comes from one of Jesus’ parables, where a wealthy man stores up so much for himself that he forgets about the true purpose of wealth. In the end, God calls him a fool…not because he was rich, but because he wasn’t “rich” in the ways that mattered most.
So What Does It Actually Mean to Be Rich Toward God?
Being rich toward God is not about the size of your bank account. It’s about the condition of your heart and the way you use what you’ve been given.
Here are a few ways to think about it:
- Recognize That Everything You Have Belongs to God
Biblical stewardship starts with the understanding that you are a manager, not an owner. Your time, talents, money, and possessions are entrusted to you for a season, and you’re called to use them in ways that honor God.
- Practice Generosity
Generosity is at the heart of being rich toward God. That doesn’t always mean giving away all your money, but it does mean holding your resources with open hands—ready to give, help, and serve where you’re able.
- Value Eternal Impact Over Earthly Security
We live in a world obsessed with financial security. While it’s wise to plan and save, Jesus reminds us not to store up treasures only for this life. Being rich toward God means investing in things that last beyond retirement, like relationships, gospel ministry, and acts of compassion.
- Guard Against Greed
The parable of the rich fool is a warning against hoarding wealth for personal comfort while neglecting God’s purposes. True richness is not found in material accumulation but in faithful stewardship.
We Explored This Deeper on The Stewardology Podcast
If you’d like to go deeper into what it means to be rich toward God, check out this episode of The Stewardology Podcast.
In that conversation, we discussed:
- The biblical meaning of “rich toward God”
- Why stewardship is about much more than budgeting or investing
- How to balance saving wisely with giving generously
- Practical steps to shift your mindset from ownership to stewardship
At the end of the day, financial success isn’t just about how much you accumulate—it’s about how well you steward what you have. Being rich toward God means living with open hands, generous hearts, and eyes fixed on eternal impact.
Listen to the episode here → https://stewardologypodcast.com/201-what-does-it-mean-to-be-rich-toward-god/
Securities & Advisory services offered through Geneos Wealth Management. Member FINRA/SIPC
Image from Unsplash (Photographer: Priscilla Du Preez)
