What Does the Bible Say About Investing?
The Bible doesn’t tell you which funds to buy or whether to use a Roth IRA. But it does provide rich wisdom for both the mindset behind investing and its practical execution. A biblically faithful investor seeks not only financial fruit, but also alignment with God’s purposes.
The Investing Mindset: Heart, Stewardship, and Eternal Perspective
Diversify Your Investments
“Give portions to seven, yes to eight, for you do not know what disaster may come upon the land.” – Ecclesiastes 11:2
This is essentially an ancient endorsement of diversification. Because the future is uncertain, spreading out your investments reduces risk.
Be Patient and Think Long-Term
“Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.”– Proverbs 13:11
Biblical wisdom promotes steady, disciplined accumulation—consistent with dollar-cost averaging, compound growth, and prudent saving. Avoid get-rich-quick schemes.
Invest with Diligence and Understanding
“Be sure you know the condition of your flocks, give careful attention to your herds.”– Proverbs 27:23
In ancient times, flocks were a form of wealth. Today, this means: know your assets. Understand your investments. Don’t be passive or ignorant—manage what God has entrusted to you with care.
Avoid Risky or Speculative Ventures
“The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.”– Proverbs 21:5
“Whoever works his land will have plenty of bread, but he who follows worthless pursuits lacks sense.”– Proverbs 12:11
Be wary of impulsive investing, speculative bets, or trends that promise high returns without real substance or understanding. Be methodical and realistic.
Consider the Moral Impact of Your Investments
“Woe to him who builds his house by unrighteousness…”– Jeremiah 22:13
“He who is kind to the poor lends to the Lord…”– Proverbs 19:17
Avoid investments in companies or industries that exploit others, cause harm, or operate contrary to biblical values. Instead, consider investments that promote human flourishing, justice, and care for creation.
Prepare for the Future, But Don’t Hoard
“Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways, and be wise… she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food in harvest.”– Proverbs 6:6–8
“Command those who are rich… not to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God.”– 1 Timothy 6:17
Save and invest with the future in mind (retirement, emergencies, legacy), but don’t idolize your net worth. Wealth is a tool, not your security.
So What Does All This Mean for You?
Biblical investing isn’t about how much you earn. It’s about how you honor God with what you’ve been given—in your mindset and in your method.
So ask yourself:
- Am I investing with a heart of trust and generosity?
- Do my investments reflect diligence, ethics, and purpose?
- Is my wealth a tool for eternal impact—or a goal in itself?
That’s the kind of investing that brings peace, purpose, and eternal reward.
A Prayer for Investments
Lord – Thank You for all You’ve entrusted to me. Help me to steward these resources with wisdom, diligence, and integrity. Guard my heart from greed, fear, and pride, and teach me to trust in You more than my returns. May my investments reflect Your values and serve Your purposes—providing for others, building for the future, and furthering Your Kingdom.