Attitude on Money

Attitude on Money

Reading Stephen W. Gibson’s Attitude on Money was eye-opening for me because it helped me see that money itself is not the problem our filters and beliefs about money are. Just as Gibson’s glasses illustration shows, we all “see” money through the lenses we inherit from our families, culture, or past experiences. Some see money as dangerous, others as unimportant, and others as the key to happiness. For me, my attitude toward money has always been shaped by a desire for security and the ability to bless my family. I know God wants His children to be successful, to prepare academically, develop our talents, and become our best so that we can help His children. Because of that, I don’t see money as something to chase for status or comfort, but as a tool that allows us to create opportunities, help others, and live a stable, purposeful life.

Gibson’s talk reminded me that money is neither good nor evil; it simply reveals the heart of the person who holds it. In the hands of the Good Samaritan, money healed wounds and saved a life. In the hands of someone selfish, money can become destructive. This shift in perspective affects how I live: if I believe money is a tool for doing good, I feel more motivated to work hard, be self-reliant, avoid debt, and look for ways to help others. But if I feared money or believed it was worldly or corrupting, I might avoid financial planning altogether and struggle later on. My view of money ultimately shapes my habits, my generosity, and my ability to provide for future responsibilities.

The article also makes it clear that there are rules for prospering, and they are spiritual principles as much as financial ones:

• Seek the Lord and have hope in Him.

• Keep the commandments, especially tithing, fast offerings, and honesty.

• Think about money and plan to be self-reliant, rather than avoiding the topic.

• Educate yourself.

• Follow the laws upon which blessings are predicated.

• Care for the poor and needy. 

These principles taught me that prosperity is not just about accumulating wealth; it is about preparing ourselves to serve. Money gives us the power to lift, educate, bless, and liberate others. That is the kind of prosperity I want, and the kind I believe God desires for us so that we can build His kingdom and bless His children.