Biblical Answer

Is it wrong to want to be wealthy?

From a biblical perspective, the answer to this question is not a straightforward "yes" or "no." While the Bible does not condemn wealth itself, it does warn against the dangers of an excessive focus on material wealth. In Proverbs 8, for example, wealth is seen as a blessing from God, but one that must be used wisely and in conjunction with righteousness and wisdom. The book of Proverbs also notes that a person's wealth is not the ultimate goal, but rather a means to an end (Proverbs 8:18, 21).

Moreover, the Bible warns against the dangers of idolatry, where wealth becomes the ultimate focus of one's life. This is seen in Proverbs 19:1, where it is said that it is better to be poor than a liar, implying that the pursuit of wealth at any cost is not worth it. The Bible also warns against the dangers of wealth becoming a source of pride and arrogance (1 Timothy 6:17-19). Instead, the Bible teaches that true wealth is found in a right relationship with God and in living a life that reflects God's values (Matthew 6:33).

Ultimately, whether or not it is wrong to want to be wealthy depends on one's motivations and priorities. If one's desire for wealth is driven by a desire to serve God and to use one's resources to make a positive impact on the world, then it is not wrong. However, if one's desire for wealth is driven by a desire for self-aggrandizement or a desire to be independent of God, then it is a problem. As the Bible says, "You cannot serve both God and money" (Matthew 6:24). Therefore, it is essential to evaluate one's motivations and priorities in order to determine whether a desire for wealth is a blessing or a curse.