The Connection Between Faith and Finances

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2 Corinthians 9:7

Faith and finances are inseparable in a life of stewardship. Martin Luther’s observation about the “three conversions”—mind, heart, and wallet—highlights this truth. Faith isn’t just about belief; it involves how we think, feel, and act, including how we manage our resources.

Paul’s encouragement to the church in Corinth to be generous was not about meeting quotas or gaining blessings in return. Instead, he emphasized giving for the sake of others, marked by joy and rooted in the understanding of God’s generosity toward us. As Rich Villodas (Narrow Path) properly puts it, “We cannot outgive God.” Reflecting on His love compels us to give freely, trusting that He will meet our needs.

As a pastor’s wife serving in Cambodia, this verse resonates deeply with the realities of our ministry, family, and faith community. It challenges us to reflect on the connection between our faith and finances, reminding us that generosity stems from a joyful heart rooted in God’s abundant love.

2 Corinthians 9:7

1. Living Below Our Means

In Cambodia, where resources are often limited, managing family finances requires intentionality. One principle I’ve learned is to live below our means—spending less than we earn and saving for the future. This practice not only prevents debt but also allows room for generosity.

In our family, we’ve had to prioritize wisely. There were seasons when we couldn’t afford therapy sessions for our son, David, and had to incorporate home-based strategies. It was a test of faith to trust God’s provision while balancing the needs of ministry and household. Yet, by living frugally and staying faithful in giving, we’ve experienced God’s sufficiency time and again.

Living below our means also teaches us to discern between needs and wants. In a culture that often equates success with material wealth, choosing simplicity can be countercultural. However, it aligns our hearts with God’s perspective, freeing us to invest in what truly matters—relationships, faith, and the mission of spreading the gospel.

2. Cultivating Contentment and Gratitude

Contentment is an antidote to the endless cycle of wanting more. It shifts our focus from what we lack to the blessings we already have. In ministry, it’s easy to compare ourselves to others who seem to have more resources or better opportunities. But contentment reminds us that God’s provision is always enough for the path He’s called us to walk.

Gratitude goes hand in hand with contentment. By acknowledging God’s blessings—whether big or small—we cultivate a heart of thanksgiving. I’ve found that gratitude often grows in the simplest moments: sharing a meal with our church community, seeing David progress in school, or receiving an encouraging word from a fellow believer. These glimpses of God’s faithfulness remind us to trust Him fully.

One young couple in our church, whom we’re discipling, recently shared how they’ve been struggling with financial challenges while raising their two-year-old daughter, who shows signs of developmental delays. The mother left her job to focus on her child, mirroring some of the sacrifices we’ve made for David. As we prayed together, we encouraged them to find contentment in God’s present provision while trusting Him for the future. Their journey of faith is a testimony of placing hope in the Blesser, not the blessing.

3. Generosity as an Act of Faith

Generosity is not about the amount we give but the heart behind it. Paul’s call to cheerful giving challenges us to shift our focus from ourselves to others. In Cambodia, where many families face economic hardships, acts of generosity—however small—can have a profound impact.

For our family, generosity often involves more than finances. It’s giving time, energy, and encouragement to those around us. David’s journey has opened doors for us to connect with other parents of children with special needs. By sharing our experiences and offering support, we’ve seen God use our story to bring hope to others.

2 Corinthians 9:7
Practical Steps to Align Faith and Finances

  1. Pray for Wisdom: Seek God’s guidance in managing your resources. Ask Him to show you how to steward what He has entrusted to you.

  2. Set a Budget: Create a plan that prioritizes necessities, savings, and giving. Stick to it as an act of discipline and faith.

  3. Practice Gratitude: Keep a journal of blessings to remind yourself of God’s provision.

  4. Give Cheerfully: Look for opportunities to bless others, whether through finances, time, or acts of kindness.

  5. Trust God’s Provision: Remember that He is faithful to supply all your needs according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19).

2 Corinthians 9:7

Managing finances as an act of faith is not always easy, but it is deeply rewarding. As we trust God with our resources, we experience the joy of seeing His provision and the privilege of being His hands and feet to bless others. Let us walk in cheerful generosity, knowing that we serve a God who loves a cheerful giver and cannot be outgiven.

Serving in Cambodia,

The Hourngs!

2 Corinthians 9:7


Location: Phnom Penh, Cambodia

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