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Managing God's Money: A Biblical Guide

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God cares a great deal more about our money than most of us imagine. The sheer enormity of Scripture’s teaching on this subject screams for our attention. In fact, Jesus says more about how we are to view and handle money and possessions than about any other topic—including both heaven and hell. In Managing God's Money, Randy Alcorn breaks down exactly what the Bible has to say about how we are to handle our money and posessions in a simple, easy-to-follow format. Filled with Scripture references, Managing God's Money is the perfect reference tool for anyone who is interested in gaining a solid biblical understanding of money, possessions, and eternity.

271 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 21, 2011

280 people are currently reading
1215 people want to read

About the author

Randy Alcorn

222 books1,590 followers
Randy Alcorn is the founder of Eternal Perspective Ministries (EPM), a nonprofit organization dedicated to teaching biblical truth and drawing attention to the needy and how to help them. EPM exists to meet the needs of the unreached, unfed, unborn, uneducated, unreconciled and unsupported people around the world.

"My ministry focus is communicating the strategic importance of using our earthly time, money, possessions and opportunities to invest in need-meeting ministries that count for eternity," Alcorn says. "I do that by trying to analyze, teach and apply the implications of Christian truth."

Before starting EPM in 1990, Alcorn co-pastored for thirteen years Good Shepherd Community Church outside Gresham, Oregon. He has ministered in many countries, including China, and is a popular teacher and conference speaker. Randy has taught on the part-time faculties of Western Seminary and Multnomah University, both in Portland, Oregon.

Randy is a best-selling author of 50 books including Heaven, The Treasure Principle and the 2002 Gold Medallion winner, Safely Home. He has written numerous articles for magazines such as Discipleship Journal, Moody, Leadership, New Man, and The Christian Reader. He produces the quarterly issues-oriented magazine Eternal Perspectives, and has been a guest on more than 650 radio and television programs including Focus on the Family, Family Life Today, The Bible Answer Man, Revive Our Hearts, Truths that Transform and Faith Under Fire.

Alcorn resides in Gresham, Oregon with his wife, Nanci. The Alcorns have two married daughters, Karina and Angela.

Randy and Nanci are the proud grandparents of five grandsons. Randy enjoys hanging out with his family, biking, tennis, research and reading.

Taken from the Eternal Perspective Ministries website, http://www.epm.org

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5 stars
433 (49%)
4 stars
320 (36%)
3 stars
99 (11%)
2 stars
15 (1%)
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4 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews
Profile Image for Jonathan Beigle.
190 reviews3 followers
August 1, 2013
I will just start off by saying I'm not a big fan of Randy Alcorn. BUT, I did really like this book. This is probably my 3rd-4th time being exposed to Alcorn (through sermon series or books), and this is by far the best that I've seen from him. I'm a big fan of reading and learning more about how to manage God's money, and this book does an excellent job of giving Biblical teaching on how we are to be stewards of what God has given us. As an investment analyst I struggle with getting caught up in the world's way of thinking, but this book can really set you straight!

These are some of my favorite quotes from the book:
p. 24 - "One day, money will be useless. While it's still useful, God's money managers with foresight will use it for eternal good."
p. 41 - "God created us to love people and use things, but materialists love things and use people."
p. 49 - "The bait of wealth hides the hook of addiction and slavery."
p. 79 - "The truth is, thinking thirty years ahead is only slightly less shortsighted than thinking thirty days ahead. Christ, the ultimate investment counselor, says, 'Don't ask how your investment will be paying off in just thirty years. Ask how it will be paying off in thirty million years.'"
p. 93 - "Our misconceptions about Heaven, and our consequent lack of excitement about living there forever, feed into our shortsightedness and our habit of clinging to this fallen Earth as our home."
p. 130 - "Christians who consider tithing the pinnacle or high ground of giving are actually lowering the Old Testament standard, which merely started with the tithe (or one of the tithes) but did not end there."
p. 173 - "God is not behind every good deal! Self-control means turning down most good deals on things we want because God may have other and better plans for His money."
p. 183 - "Citibank calculates that a consumer using a credit card will buy 26% more than he would if he were carrying cash, even if he pays it all off with interest charges."
p. 208 - "People often testify of the character, discipline, self-control, and trust in God they developed when they were younger and had much less to live on. How ironic that these same people pass on large amounts of money to their children, robbing them of similar blessings and character development."
Profile Image for Kevin Halloran.
Author 5 books100 followers
October 26, 2019
A refreshing and convicting guide to thinking through how to manage what God has entrusted to us. It wasn’t new material that challenged me but application of biblical material that is so counter-cultural and counter the way my flesh operates. It drove me to my knees in prayer for God to help me use what He has given me for His glory. A great primer for Christians on financial stewardship
Profile Image for Dawid Dethan.
20 reviews
March 14, 2025
Here are some quotes I love from this book

“God gives us money not to increase our standard of living but our standard of Giving”

Most people use Money to play with and not a tool to impact eternity
Profile Image for Steve.
275 reviews7 followers
February 29, 2020
I'm used to fluffy christianese language. Unfortunately, I expect it now. This book, however, demands better from an average Christian financial effort and outlines it with Biblical support. It calls us to be stewards of God's resources (which most people think are their own). The expected wisdom of stewardship smacks the face of casual consumerism rampant in Christian communities. While it is not a guide to getting rich or investing, there are some helpful tips to follow.

Heck, even for non-Christians, I could recommend this book as a good way to live your financial life. Instead of giving 10% to a church via tithing, give 10% away to a reputable charity and learn to live on less. In the end, it may only be a 4 star book, but I had such low expectations for a Christian book on finances that this guide seemed extraordinary.

Side note: this book was given to me by Christian Community Credit Union for opening a checking account. I only read it because it was free and right in front of me. I planned on recycling immediately, but now I will definitely pass it along.
Profile Image for Raphael Mnkandhla.
32 reviews
February 17, 2016
Excellent book

With the prosperity gospel thriving, the subject of money has become extinct in churches or pulpits. This book gives a good dose of healthy biblical thinking about money. This is good for pastors, parents, missionaries , college students and all people interested in making a difference in regards to money.
Profile Image for Kendra Christine.
62 reviews89 followers
July 7, 2021
First off… My flesh really didn’t want to read this book…. BUT, I’m SO GLAD I did! I kid you not, this book transformed me! I could not recommend it enough and it’s given me such a different perspective on money and finances!! Wow wow wow!!!
Profile Image for Danette.
2,977 reviews14 followers
December 29, 2021
I recommend this book to Christians who would like to know more about what God says about finances and how we can honor God in our stewardship. Finances shouldn't be a taboo topic. I know we made many mistakes early on because we didn't reach out and get advice.
So often Christians follow the world's leading in financial matters rather than the stewardship model which recognizes that all I have is God's and I am to manage it His way. Are we following the American dream or seeing how our finances are a tool to use in Christ's kingdom?
"For some of us, it's time to beg God's forgiveness for our self-indulgent lifestyles, our indifference to human need, and our shortsightedness about eternity. For others, it's time to joyfully move forward and raise the bar higher. It's time for all of us to live a life of obedient and exhilarating discipleship. It's time to say no to the American dream and yes to the Kingdom dreams of the risen Christ."

2021 A book about finances
Profile Image for Jackson Simmons.
6 reviews1 follower
October 26, 2025
This is the best and most challenging book I’ve ever read about money management from a godly perspective.
Profile Image for Julia.
141 reviews
November 22, 2024
Wow! So good! Really encouraged by this content.

He hits on so many topics surrounding money, and mentioned a lot of myths people believe about money, specifically tithing and debt. Definitely changes my view on money and how I might spend it more eternally beneficial and how I might teach my kids about money one day.

As a spender and someone who struggles with money, this was a really hard read. I would define it as growing pains! If you are someone who has regretted a purchase before or ever spent money, this is a fantastic book for you to read.

Thanks study program!
Profile Image for Michael.
1,275 reviews124 followers
May 24, 2013
I am surprised at how much I enjoyed this book about managing money. It was not your typical book with full of cliches and assumptions about what the Bible says but it was very relevant to what is going on in society. I learned a lot about inheritance, the misconceptions about money and why God wants us to live an abundant life. There were certain controversial topics that he talked about, he provided great insight without disputing over it. Although this book was nowhere near fantastic, I learned a lot about how to deal with money and how to be content in whatever state I am in.

I look forward to reading more novels by him, love his writing style and his unbiased views on things.

79 reviews
May 19, 2025
straightforward and clear. helpful catalogue and brief synopsis of key scriptures on money (not just from the NT!). strong views on debt and bankruptcy. thinking on rewards and debt surprisingly similar at times to views of early church fathers (basil/chrysostom) wonder if Alcorn was familiar with their takes. plenty of other good reminders like leaving your kids a legacy that is more than money and the more general point that God is creator and we are stewards of his creation.

tangentially made me think more about how i’m inclined to restricting the flow of money as opposed to directing it.
Profile Image for Lori Schwilling.
63 reviews4 followers
June 23, 2014
Although I occasionally took issue with Alcorn's conservative theology, I found his primary arguments to be enlightening and informative. Of particular interest were his attack on the prosperity gospel and his argument that the tithe should be our starting point, not the final goal. The book includes numerous references to scripture, both Hebrew Bible and New Testament.
Profile Image for Matt Witten.
216 reviews5 followers
June 19, 2018
A challenging book for our Western culture. A real look at what money is, and what it should mean for us. Something all Christians should read as the learn how to manage worldly assets and use what's God's for his glory.
Profile Image for Alex Flores.
24 reviews2 followers
January 6, 2023
This read started off strong. And I truly desired to love this book. However, as I progressed onward I began to encounter many statements that I found unsettling and believed to be untrue.

The main chapters that I found very misinforming were about tithing and inheritance.
He made a statement that if you keep from God what’s his (referring to your tithe) you will fall under his curse. Where’s the scriptural evidence for that? There is none.
Also many scriptures that he gave were taken out of context in an attempt prove his opinion as a biblical fact. A lot of views and points are Alcorns opinions, not FACTS. However the problem lies in the fact that he attempts to use scriptures that don’t line up to try to prove his views or opinions as biblically sound views and facts.

In the chapter about inheritance he connects giving your children money when you die with ruining marriages and taking away from the man’s ability and honor to provide. Now this is just absurd. There are many reasons I could give for why I feel this is absurd and there are more things I disagree with but I am honestly running out of patience giving this review. This book review has me typing WAY more than I intended.

To sum this all up. This book has some good wisdom about money. It truly does. But I feel that the misinforming opinions that Alcorn attempts to deliver as facts by using scripture (out of context) completely takes away from it. Personally would not recommend.
Profile Image for Andy Vernetti.
41 reviews1 follower
April 8, 2025
I really loved this book. Randy very faithfully points his readers to Scripture and to his own experiences and people he’s interacted with, all of which reiterates the point that we are stewards of God’s gifts. They never were ours to begin with and we can’t take them with us. Should we spend God’s resources on temporary things that will pass away or should we store them up in heaven where they will be waiting for us, multiplied in the kingdom because of the work we did in this life.

It helped me think and pray through questions I had been having myself lately about saving, investing, retirement, and inheritance. I would encourage all of my brothers and sisters in Christ to read this challenging book and to help each other in our walks to not live for ourselves but to faithfully ask God how he would have us use his gifts.
Profile Image for Ryan Martin.
Author 1 book11 followers
December 27, 2024
A wonderful and very practical book on managing God's money. The way this book is set up through various questions is very helpful to guide the reader through the various facets of stewarding the resources God has entrusted to us. This book is not only about considering how we personally manage finances, but teach the next generation to do the same, for the glory of God!
Profile Image for Megan Herriott.
25 reviews
July 14, 2022
This was such a great read for any Christian wanting biblical wisdom and direction about what we should be doing with our money - from giving to saving to investing. Randy Alcorn presenta an “eternal investment strategy,” grounded in scripture, that is inspiring and exciting.
Profile Image for Mike Vowels.
36 reviews
January 30, 2024
Overall this book was very helpful. I think this book would answer a lot of people’s question regarding money and how to best use it for God’s glory! I think the author does a good job of using biblical support for anything he argues.
Profile Image for Janelle.
163 reviews36 followers
August 10, 2021
The best book on money I have ever read!
11 reviews1 follower
January 23, 2023
This book didn’t necessarily have a million new concepts about money but continued to present practical ways to demonstrate what treasuring Christ above all else can look like within our finances. With the constant reminder that it’s really not ours so who are we to worry about the source of it if God is sovereign, Alcorn directs us to ask of every penny that leaves our hand “Since all of ‘my’ money is really yours, Lord, how would you like me to invest your money today?”


“Because our misconceptions about Heaven, and our consequent lack of excitement about living there forever, feed into our shortsightedness and our habit of clinging to this fallen Earth as our home.”
Profile Image for Paul Herriott.
429 reviews16 followers
July 5, 2022
Thought provoking and biblical. Randy Alcorn eschews the current cultural ideals for money management and brings forth God's standards. Convicting throughout, and seemingly radical, the authors trusted voice is backed up by his actions.
Profile Image for Precious Francis.
36 reviews1 follower
February 17, 2025
2024 Review

Being true and careful with the small things in life is really important. It's not just about money or being rich; it's also about how you handle everyday tasks and treat the people close to you. If you're good with these small things, you're showing that you can be trusted with more.

Remember, money isn't everything. The Bible, in Matthew 19:16-25, teaches us not to worship wealth. We're going to have to explain how we used what we had on Earth, including our money.

Everything belongs to God (Psalm 24:1), and we're just taking care of it for Him. We were even bought at a price, as 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 says, so we should think carefully about how we use our money, asking God for guidance.

Being a Christian means using what we've been given to help spread the Good News. This isn't just about money; it's about time, relationships, skills, careers, and chances we get in life. These gifts are meant to help others, and there's a reward in heaven for doing so.

What changes can you make to be sure you're using God's gifts wisely?

It's wrong to think money is always bad or always good. The Bible doesn't say money is evil; it says loving money too much is the problem (1 Timothy 6:10).

Setting a good example is the best way to teach others, especially your kids. When they see you living a faithful life and helping others, they'll want to do the same.

By serving others, you're saving up treasures in heaven. Putting off what you want now can lead to greater rewards from God later.

God rewards every good thing you do. Giving to others is a way to show gratitude for what God has given us, stretching beyond our comfort to truly help.

Finally, be careful with debt. Living within your means and giving generously, within your capacity, is part of being a good steward of what God has entrusted to you. 4.0⭐️

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2025 Review

Money as a tool for Eternal Impact
Key points I learnt.

How we handle the little we have today reflects how we will manage more in the future. Stewardship is not just about wealth, it’s about faithfulness. God entrusts us with resources, not for selfish gain, but for His kingdom. Though we live under grace, we remain accountable for how we use what He has given us.

Money is a bad master but a good servant. When it controls us, it breeds anxiety, greed, and misplaced priorities. But when we see it as a tool we use it to bless others, meet needs and advance God’s purpose. Teaching children the right perspective on money is not just about words but about setting an example. Holding tightly to earthly riches is futile because in death, they stay behind. But living with a kingdom mindset means investing in treasures that last beyond this life.

Tithing is not an obligation; it opens the heart to generosity, making giving a natural response. Giving is not about loss but about trust, a way of saying that provision ultimately comes from God. While short-term sacrifices may feel uncomfortable, they create long-term benefits, shaping a life built on faith and purpose.

Managing money is like maintaining a swimming pool with multiple leaks. Each leak represents small, frequent expenses purchases made to fill an underlying void. The problem isn’t just spending; it’s what drives the spending. Pouring more water into the pool, increasing income, may seem like a solution, but unless the leaks are fixed, the water will continue to drain away. True financial stewardship isn’t about making more but about addressing the root cause, sealing the gaps and directing resources intentionally to where they truly matter.

Money is temporary, but its impact can be eternal. When used wisely and stewarded faithfully, it becomes a tool that leaves a lasting mark beyond this life.

Children start picking up on money habits from their parents as early as age 3. Studies show that by this age, they begin to understand basic concepts like spending and saving. By age 7, many of their core financial behaviors and attitudes toward money are already established. This means the way parents handle money, whether through spending, saving, budgeting, or discussing finances deeply influences their children’s lifelong financial mindset.
Profile Image for Laura.
168 reviews1 follower
May 10, 2013
This book has been life changing for me. Growing up in the Lutheran church I do not remember sermons on money and how we should be managing it. I am guilty of being an over spender, living beyond my means and not really caring about the ramifications of it. I am burdened by 'my stuff' and also all the stuff I have bought for my daughter.
This book has shown me how to life my 'dot' well yet prepare for my 'line' life. I will be making many changes that will impact our lives and others for the good. Thank you.
Profile Image for Jeff Hennore.
146 reviews19 followers
November 29, 2018
This book is so well-written, and is a great resource for those who are looking for further insight on how important it is to get our finances in order. At times, Alcorn did offer suggestions that seemed too difficult to follow, but I know that following Christ is no easy task. I am beyond grateful that I came across this book, and look forward to continually refer to it as I strive to live in heavenly peace. Thanks Randy!
Profile Image for Shelby.
336 reviews
January 10, 2023
Dec '22 / Jan '23 reread - so excellent. This book is so important and I wish every Christian would pick it up and be transformed by the renewing of their mind. (Myself included, each year, through revisiting the truths contained in these pages.)

Truly excellent in every way: convicting, informative, practical, encouraging. I wish I had read this at 18. Will definitely reread through different life stages.
45 reviews
February 13, 2024
I thought this was a wonderful book! I appreciated that the topics didn't linger longer than they needed to. The author does a great job getting the point, giving actionable examples, and moving to the next point!

I listened to this in audiobook format and bought the physical copy after. I wanted to underline and take notes on MANY sections - it was just so good.

💯 recommend 👌
Profile Image for Janice Parial.
48 reviews1 follower
May 1, 2023
What a wonderful reminder that we are but mere stewards.
Profile Image for Peter Krol.
Author 2 books62 followers
April 19, 2024
Very clear, well argued, and convicting. Was fabulous to read to my teenagers to open discussions of biblical stewardship principles.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 102 reviews

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