In the first century B.C., Roman historian Sallust observed, “Prosperity tries the souls, even of the wise.”
Most of us would probably choose financial prosperity over adversity. Yet both seasons bring their own spiritual challenges.
When things are going well financially, it can be tempting to take credit for our success. Pride, greed, and self-reliance can quietly take root. Financial hardship brings different temptations—self-pity, bitterness, envy, or fear.
Scripture offers a better way. Christians are called to live faithfully and with integrity regardless of their circumstances. And according to the Bible, the key to doing that in both prosperity and adversity is wisdom.
In the first century B.C., Roman historian Sallust observed, “Prosperity tries the souls, even of the wise.”
Most of us would probably choose financial prosperity over adversity. Yet both seasons bring their own spiritual challenges.
When things are going well financially, it can be tempting to take credit for our success. Pride, greed, and self-reliance can quietly take root. Financial hardship brings different temptations—self-pity, bitterness, envy, or fear.
Scripture offers a better way. Christians are called to live faithfully and with integrity regardless of their circumstances. And according to the Bible, the key to doing that in both prosperity and adversity is wisdom.
The Beginning of Wisdom
Proverbs 1:7 says, “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of knowledge; fools despise wisdom and instruction.”
Fearing the Lord does not mean living in dread of Him. It means recognizing that He is God and we are not. It is a posture of reverence toward His holiness, wisdom, and authority.
God’s commands are not arbitrary restrictions designed to make life difficult. They are loving boundaries given by the One who created us and knows what leads to life and flourishing. Like a loving parent who sets boundaries to protect a child, God directs us toward what is good.
When we understand that, fearing the Lord becomes less about being afraid and more about growing in love, trust, and joyful obedience.
And this wisdom is not reserved for the wealthy, successful, or especially intelligent. It is available to anyone who humbly listens to God and trusts His Word.
The Fruit of Godly Wisdom
Scripture describes many benefits of walking in wisdom.
There is discernment. Proverbs 2:9 teaches that wisdom helps us understand “righteousness and justice and equity, every good path.”
There is guidance. Proverbs 3:6 reminds us, “In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.”
There is blessing. Proverbs 3:13 says, “Blessed is the one who finds wisdom.”
There is also honor and protection. Proverbs 3:35 says, “The wise will inherit honor,” while Proverbs 16:6 teaches that “by the fear of the Lord one turns away from evil.”
These are not promises that wise people will always become financially prosperous. They are reminders that God’s wisdom produces something far more valuable: a life increasingly shaped by truth, integrity, discernment, and faithfulness.
Those qualities can take root whether your bank account is growing or shrinking.
When We Reject Wisdom
Scripture often contrasts the wise with the fool. That language is not intended as a petty insult but as a sober warning.
Proverbs 12:15 says, “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.”
Biblically speaking, foolishness is the attempt to live independently of God’s wisdom—to determine for ourselves what is good, right, and worthy of pursuit.
That temptation certainly appears in our financial lives.
We may assume that because something makes financial sense, it must automatically be wise. We may pursue more money without asking what that pursuit is doing to our hearts. Or we may allow our circumstances to determine our attitude toward God.
But His warnings are also invitations. God continually calls us back to a better way—a life shaped by His wisdom rather than our impulses.
So what does that look like in our everyday financial decisions?
See Money Through God’s Eyes
First, remember who owns everything.
Scripture teaches that everything ultimately belongs to God. We are stewards of what He has entrusted to us.
That changes the goal of financial management. The ultimate objective is not simply to reach a certain bank balance, accumulate enough possessions, or achieve financial independence. It is to become increasingly faithful with whatever God places in our hands.
Ask the Holy Spirit to shape your desires, guide your decisions, and help you use God’s resources in ways that honor Him.
Put Biblical Principles Into Practice
Financial wisdom is more than knowing what Scripture says. It means putting biblical principles into practice.
God’s Word should shape not only what we do with money but also how we treat people along the way.
That means practicing honesty and integrity, dealing fairly with others, keeping our commitments, and allowing the Holy Spirit to cultivate generosity and humility.
A financially wise decision should not merely ask, “Will this benefit me?” It should also consider whether the decision reflects God’s character and demonstrates love for others.
Pursue Contentment
Finally, pursue contentment.
Contentment grows as we learn to trust God with what we have, what we need, and what lies ahead.
As we invite Him into our financial lives and depend increasingly on His provision, the Holy Spirit begins loosening our grip on comparison and the constant desire for more.
That is why 1 Timothy 6:6 reminds us, “Godliness with contentment is great gain.”
Contentment does not mean we stop planning, working, saving, or pursuing worthwhile goals. It means those things no longer determine our security or identity.
Faithful in Prosperity and Adversity
Whether you are walking through financial adversity or enjoying a season of prosperity, your circumstances do not change who God is.
He remains faithful. His wisdom remains trustworthy. And His provision remains worthy of our confidence.
True financial wisdom is not measured by how much we have. It is revealed in how faithfully we follow God with whatever He has entrusted to us.
In every season—prosperity or adversity—the wisest path is the same: fear the Lord, trust His Word, and faithfully walk in His ways.
On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:
I inherited about $50,000, and a friend is encouraging me to use options trading to grow it faster. How does that compare with investing in more traditional mutual funds? Also, my late mother left $100 in a savings account that the bank says must go through probate. Does that make sense for such a small amount?
My 75-year-old mother owns her home outright and is considering a reverse mortgage for extra income. She also co-signed a loan for my sister. Could that affect her ability to qualify?
My wife has an inherited IRA from her father and a separate 401(k) from a former employer. Can those accounts be combined, and what’s the best way to use them for retirement income?
Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every weekday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.
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