This post is part of the Twisted Scriptures series, where we look at familiar Bible verses in their original context and consider what they truly mean. Series started May 3, 2026.
You have probably heard someone say, “Money is the root of all evil.”
It sounds biblical, but that is not what the Bible actually says.
First Timothy 6:10 says, “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.” Paul did not say money itself is evil. He warned about what happens when money becomes an object of love, trust, and pursuit.
Money is a tool. It can be used to feed a family, help someone in need, support ministry, create opportunities, or provide stability. The same money can also be used selfishly, dishonestly, or carelessly. The problem is not the existence of money. The problem is the place it holds in the heart.
The Greek word translated “love of money” is philargyria, pronounced fil-ar-goo-REE-ah, and written φιλαργυρία. It describes an affection for money, greediness, or the desire to possess more. Paul was not warning against earning, saving, planning, or having resources. He was warning against a heart that becomes attached to wealth.
The wording of the verse also matters. Paul said the love of money is “a root of all kinds of evil,” not the single root behind every evil action. Pride, jealousy, lust, bitterness, hatred, and many other sins can grow from different desires. Still, the love of money has produced an enormous amount of harm.
People have lied for it, betrayed friends for it, neglected their families for it, and compromised their faith for it. Some have gained more than they ever expected and still discovered that it was not enough.
That is because greed rarely announces itself as greed.
It often sounds responsible at first. We tell ourselves we are only trying to get ahead, build security, or provide a better life. Those can be good goals, but they become dangerous when money begins to control our choices, determine our worth, or replace our dependence on God.
Paul’s warning came in a larger discussion about contentment. He wrote that godliness with contentment is great gain. We brought nothing into this world, and we will carry nothing out of it. When our basic needs are met, we should learn to recognize God’s provision instead of allowing desire to grow without limit.
Contentment does not mean laziness or a lack of ambition. It means money is no longer allowed to decide whether we have peace.
A person can have very little money and still love it. Another person can have great wealth and hold it with an open hand. The condition of the heart cannot be measured by the size of a bank account alone.
Jesus taught that where our treasure is, our heart will be also. What we value will eventually shape our attention, decisions, and priorities. Money becomes dangerous when it promises what only God can provide: security, identity, peace, and lasting satisfaction.
Scripture does not teach that poverty makes someone holy or that wealth makes someone sinful. It teaches us to be faithful with whatever God has placed in our hands.
Money should serve the purposes of God. It should never take the place of God.
Bible Promise
Matthew 6:33
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”
When God’s kingdom comes first, you can trust Him to provide what you truly need.
Reflection Questions
- Has money become too closely connected to your sense of security, success, or personal worth?
- Is there a financial decision you need to bring under God’s authority instead of allowing fear or greed to guide it?
Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Thank You for every provision and resource You have placed in my hands. Help me use money wisely without allowing it to control my heart. Keep me from greed, fear, dishonesty, and the constant desire for more. Teach me to be content without becoming careless and generous without seeking recognition. Let my security rest in You instead of what I own, and help every financial decision reflect Your wisdom and priorities.
I give You all honor, all the glory, and all of the praise. It’s in Jesus’ name I pray. Amen & Amen.