1.  “We are prone to paint the image of spirituality in colors of deep Bible knowledge, lengthy times of prayer, or prominence in the Lord’s work, which is not only deceiving but must be very discouraging to the average believer who can never envision these features as being a part of his life….But our love for God may be proved by something that is a major part of everyone’s life, and that is our use of money.  How we use our money demonstrates the reality of our love for God.” (Dr. Charles Ryrie, Balancing the Christian Life, p. 84)

2.  Biblical Principles relating to money and possessions:

-All is God’s/All is from God-we are stewards.  1 Corinthians 4:2,7; Deuteronomy 8:17,18; 1 Chronicles 29:10-17; Ecclesiastes 5:19.

-We must not love money, live for it, or put our trust in it.  1 Timothy 6:6-10; Matthew 6:24; Hebrews 13:5

-We must use our resources to further God’s purposes.  Matthew 6:19-21; 1 Timothy 6:17-19

-We must learn to value those things that don’t have price tags: our relationship with God, Proverbs 15:16; our relationships with our mate, our children, one-another, Proverbs 15:17 (more  principles to follow)