(The idea behind this series is – “what advice would I give my twenty-something sons about life?” So, I am taking the approach of coffee shop conversations with young men who are transitioning into independent manhood. These are lessons I have learned and would love to convey to young men – in hopes to impart some hard-earned wisdom rooted in Christ.)
If we were sitting across from each other and you asked me about money…
I’d lower my voice a little, because this one sneaks up on people.
Most people don’t realize they’re chasing appearance instead of freedom. They buy things to look successful while quietly feeling trapped. Payments stack up. Stress builds. And peace slips away unnoticed.
Here’s the truth: no one is impressed long enough for it to be worth the anxiety.
Freedom comes from margin. From spending less than you make. From saying no now so you can say yes later. Flash feels good in the moment, but freedom lets you breathe.
Money isn’t evil, but it’s a powerful tool – and tools work best when you’re the one holding them. If money controls your decisions, it will shape your future in ways you didn’t intend. Take the approach, rooted in scripture, that it is not yours but instead that you are a steward of God’s resources.
Aim for peace, not applause. Security, not status. Quiet confidence beats loud spending every time.
Scripture to reflect on:
The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is the slave of the lender.”– Proverbs 22:7
One who is faithful in a very little is also faithful in much… If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches? – Luke 16:10-11
Keep your life free from love of money, and be content with what you have, for he has said, ‘I will never leave you nor forsake you.’ – Hebrews 13:5
But godliness with contentment is great gain, for we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of the world. – 1 Timothy 6:6-7
Dadvotionals 