Biblical Answer

Is It Wrong to Want to Be Wealthy?

The Bible does not explicitly state that wanting to be wealthy is wrong. In fact, it acknowledges that wealth can provide a level of comfort and security in life. Proverbs 8:21 notes that the presence of wealth can be a blessing, and Ecclesiastes 7:12 suggests that it can provide insulation from life's setbacks. However, the Bible does caution against idolizing wealth and material possessions, and emphasizes the importance of using wealth for the spread of God's kingdom.

The key issue is not whether one wants to be wealthy, but how they view wealth in relation to their relationship with God. The Bible teaches that true wealth is not measured by material possessions, but by a person's relationship with God and their commitment to righteousness (Proverbs 10:2). Jesus taught that one cannot serve both God and wealth (Matthew 6:24), suggesting that true wealth lies in a right relationship with God, not in material possessions. Therefore, wanting to be wealthy is not inherently wrong, but it is wrong to prioritize wealth over a relationship with God.

In fact, the Bible encourages believers to use their wealth to benefit others and to spread God's kingdom. Jesus taught that giving to the poor and needy is a key aspect of being a follower of God (Matthew 25:31-46). Therefore, wanting to be wealthy can be a positive motivation, as long as it is not an end in itself, but rather a means to an end - to use one's wealth to benefit others and to spread God's kingdom. Ultimately, the Bible teaches that true wealth is not measured by material possessions, but by a person's relationship with God and their commitment to righteousness.