5 Lies Religious People Tell You About Money

In many religious circles, money is treated as a "necessary evil" or a spiritual taboo. Believers are often coached to remain in a state of "pious poverty," as if being broke somehow makes one more holy or closer to God. This mindset is a remnant of the Old Covenant "servant" mentality and is designed to keep you from exercising your ruler anointing in the earth.

To reign in life, you must renew your mind to the New Covenant reality: Jesus became poor so that you, through His poverty, might be rich. Here are five common lies religious systems tell you about money, and the truth that sets you free to prosper.

1. "God wants you poor to keep you humble"

This is perhaps the most pervasive lie in the church. It suggests that God is so insecure about your character that He must withhold resources to keep you reliant on Him.

• The Truth: Humility is a matter of the heart, not the bank account. You can be arrogant and broke, or humble and wealthy.
• The Father's Heart: 3 John 1-2 (NKJV) says: "Beloved, I pray that you may prosper in all things and be in health, just as your soul prospers." God is a Father who delights in the prosperity of His servants and sons.

2. "Money is the root of all evil"

This is a misquotation of 1 Timothy 6-10, which actually says the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.

• The Truth: Money is neutral; it is simply a tool for the assignment on your life.
• A Resource for Reigning: You cannot feed the hungry, build churches, or finance the Gospel with "good intentions." Money in the hands of a New Covenant believer is a weapon of righteousness used to destroy the works of the enemy.

3. "You have to 'buy' your breakthrough"

Religious systems often use fear or manipulation to get people to give, suggesting that if you "seed" enough, God will finally be obligated to heal you or save your family.

• The Truth: Your breakthrough was already bought and paid for by the Blood of Jesus.
• Giving from Abundance: Under Grace, we don't give to get a blessing; we give because we are blessed. Giving is a response to the Finished Work, not a bribe for God's favor.

4. "The 'wealth of the sinner' is only for the afterlife"

Many are taught that they will be rich in "mansions over the hilltop" but must suffer lack while on earth.

• The Truth: Proverbs 13-22 (NKJV) says the wealth of the sinner is laid up for the righteous now.
• Enforcing the Transfer: As a king and priest, you have the authority to decree the transfer of resources into the Kingdom. You are meant to be the head and not the tail, the lender and not the borrower, in this life.

5. "Financial struggle is a sign of God's 'test'"

When believers experience lack, religion often tells them God is "testing" their faith or teaching them a lesson.

• The Truth: Lack is a part of the curse, and Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the Law (Galatians 3-13).
• Standing in Authority: If you are experiencing lack, it isn't a test from God; it’s an opportunity to exercise your believer's authority. Decree the abundance of grace and command the windows of heaven to remain open over your life.

Conclusion

The religious myths surrounding money are designed to keep the Body of Christ in a "slave" position, dependent on the systems of the world. But you are a son and an heir. The Finished Work includes your financial wholeness. Stop apologizing for wanting to prosper and start recognizing that your wealth is a tool for Kingdom dominion. When you walk in the abundance of grace, you have more than enough to fulfill your destiny and be a blessing to every person you meet.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does God care about my bank account?

Yes. He cares about everything that concerns you. If you are stressed about bills, you aren't at rest; and if you aren't at rest, you aren't reigning. He wants you provided for so you can focus on your assignment.

If I'm under Grace, do I still need to tithe?

Tithing existed before the Law (Abraham) and during the Law. Under Grace, giving is not a legal requirement to avoid a curse; it is a joyous privilege. We give generously because we realize we are joint-heirs with Christ and our supply is limitless.

How do I break a "poverty mindset"?

By the constant washing of the Word. You must stop saying "I can't afford it" and start saying "My God supplies all my needs according to His riches in glory." Your words determine your wealth.

Is it wrong to desire nice things?

Psalm 35-27 (NKJV) says God "has pleasure in the prosperity of His servant." If it gives God pleasure to see you prosper, it cannot be wrong for you to enjoy the fruit of your inheritance.

This article is part of a series answering difficult questions about grace and the New Covenant.