John Wesley had strict teachings on the use of money. He pointed out 3 principles: gain all, save all and give all.
1. Gain All You Can
It is a good thing to be able to work. Work is a blessing to God. To Wesley, money should be earned in the right way: honestly, ethically and responsibly. God has entrusted us to be productive and diligent in our work. We are to gain all the money that we can but here is a caution, never at the expense of our health, our soul, or the well-being of others.
2. Save All You Can
Wesley encouraged believers to live simply and avoid unnecessary spending on vanity or personal-comfort. waste money away. Wealth is not to be hoarded for personal comfort or self-indulgence, but to be stewarded wisely.
3. Give All You Can
Money is an excellent gift from God, but it is not meant for selfish pleasure. Wesley taught that the true purpose of wealth is to bless others, to improve the quality of life for others and to help those in need. He urged Methodists to live frugally so we could give generously.
Money is a powerful tool for doing good—but only when used with the right heart and pure intention.
John Wesley recognised that money is not evil. As the Bible says, “10 For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.” (1 Timothy 6:10).
Money itself is not a bad thing. It is a system of value that people agree to use for exchanging goods and services. We buy goods and services using money.
However, is the desire for the excessive of money, and seeing money as the ultimate source of importance and happiness in life which lead people away from God. The desire for wealth can cause someone to do unethical things which will cause many sorrows, regrets and pains to them and those around them.
John Wesley said,“When I have money, I get rid of it quickly, lest it find a way into my heart.”
Of course, he did not mean reckless spending. He meant that money shall have no control over his heart, his life or his ministry.
How shall we invest in the life and the resources God has entrusted to us?
