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God tells us that His name is Jehovah Jireh, the God who provides. He also says one of His names is El Shaddai, the God of more than enough. So, with that being said—should rich Christians have to downgrade their lifestyle? How much money is too much money? We’re breaking it down today with part-two of our interview with Pastor James Baker.
In the interview, Baker jokes, “He was able to feed 12 teenage boys for three and a half years of ministry. Do you know how much they eat?”
On a more serious note, Jesus prospered. While on earth, he was extremely generous with what He had. “So we don’t need to be afraid of money,” Baker says.
Though money can be used to help advance God’s kingdom, there are warning signs—almost like the side effects of pharmaceuticals. Baker advises the body of Christ to take those warning signs seriously, but know the anecdote for those things is proper stewardship.
How much is too much money?
“Whatever amount replaces trusting God,” he says.
Can you really put a specific dollar amount on the limit Christians should have in their bank account? Some people can’t have $100 without going and spending it on sinful desires, others can have $100,000,000 and it doesn’t shake their eternal anchoring in God.
“It isn’t your job or my job to be the prosperity police, trying to figure out who’s got too much. What’s too nice of a car? The Pharisees are doing these things,” Baker says.
One of the most important aspects of Christianity is building one another up and fighting for unity. “You don’t get to judge another man’s harvest when you don’t know what kind of seed he planted,” Baker says.
In your life, you should focus on living generously, steward what you have well and seek to advance God’s kingdom.
What does it mean to partner with God in finances?
God wants you to become the kind of person that can carry the weight of blessing without it breaking you.
“You can’t go farther in kingdom finances than you’ve gone in trust with the Lord. The amount you can steward is the amount you can you look at Him and trust Him with,” Baker says.
Get God involved in all of your business ventures, side hustles and big purchases. The Holy Spirit is your friend and you’ll be surprised at how much He desires to be involved in all aspects of your life. This isn’t just a life for Him but it’s a life with Him.
For Baker, money is another way to be intimate with Jesus. Nobody can take better care of you than your Heavenly Father. {eoa}
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Shelby Bowen is an assistant editor for Charisma Media.
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