Loose Change

(brief articles of)

Principles & Practices

David & Debbie Bragonier

Now celebrating our 42nd year of serving people and proclaiming biblical stewardship principles through Barnabas, starting in 1984

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Have you ever seriously thought about the reality that most all American’s are rich? From the perspective of most individuals and families in the United States, that thought and observation probably seems unrealistic.

Today, many “Millennials” and those of “Generation Z” don’t believe, understand, or even comprehend our wealth in America. A recent quote from a 26-year-old MBA student stated, “My Generation Is blind to the prosperity around us!”

The reality of our American wealthiness popped up recently while studying the Apostle Paul’s two letters to Timothy. As you read the following verses, look for the obvious “wealth” and “money” related verses (which we underlined), along with Paul’s doctrinal and other stated practical concerns for Christians and the Church today.

I Tim. 6:3-12

If anyone advocates a different doctrine and does not agree with sound words, those of our Lord Jesus Christ, and with the doctrine conforming to godliness, he is conceited and understands nothing; but he has a morbid interest in controversial questions and disputes about words, out of which arise envy, strife, abusive language, evil suspicions, and constant friction between men of depraved mind and deprived of the truth, who suppose that godliness is a means of gain. But godliness actually is a means of great gain when accompanied by contentment. For we have brought nothing into the world, so we cannot take anything out of it either. If we have food and covering, with these we shall be content. But those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a snare and many foolish and harmful desires which plunge men into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all sorts of evil, and some by longing for it have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

But flee from these things, you man of God, and pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, perseverance and gentleness. Fight the good fight of faith; take hold of the eternal life to which you were called, and you made the good confession in the presence of many witnesses.                                                         

I Tim. 6:17-19

Instruct those who are rich in this present world not to be conceited or to fix their hope on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly supplies us with all things to enjoy. Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, storing up for themselves the treasure of a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is life indeed.



There are many deep and challenging “money” related applications stated within these Timothy verses. However, let’s now focus on “wealth” related verses. Following are other New Testament passages centering on “wealth” that add additional information and clarification.

Matthew 19:21–24

Jesus talking to the rich young ruler (also covered in Mark 10:17–27 and Luke 18:18–27):

Jesus said to him, “If you wish to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” But when the young man heard this statement, he went away grieving; for he was one who owned much property. And Jesus said to His disciples, “Truly I say to you, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.

Luke 6:24

Jesus speaking: But woe to you who are rich, for you are receiving your comfort in full.

Luke 12:15

Jesus again speaking: Then He said to them, “Beware, and be on your guard against every form of greed; for not even when one has an abundance does his life consist of his possessions.

Luke 16:19–31

We have not quoted this passage, but in these verses Jesus tells the story of a wealthy man who lived luxuriously while Lazarus, a poor beggar, suffered outside his gate.

James also shares “wealth warnings”:

In 2:1–6 James condemns showing favoritism toward rich people in the church.

In 5:1–6 James gives a strong warning to wealthy people who have accumulated riches by exploiting their workers.

Next, let’s compare some AI provided Annual Income Stats:

As we became curious regarding Paul’s words of “rich in this present world,” we started researching “wealth” in America as compared to wealth around the rest of the world. According to ChatGPT the “median” income in the world for a family of four is roughly $12,000 to $15,000 per year. The “median” income in the USA for a family of four is $83,730. The “average” (or mean) income is much higher at approximately $114,300 per year. Our poverty line begins many times above the global average. By global standards, no one in the United States is even considered poor. It is no wonder why we have people who would love to get into this country.

To be honest, we, like others, do not feel wealthy as compared to those around us in America. However, Paul’s words challenge us to broaden our perspective stating, “in the present world.”

Let’s now consider some conclusions, questions, and applications for all these “wealth” verses as we, as Americans, take a broader world-wide perspective:

1.     First, in the Bible, being “wealthy” is not a sin. The New Testament simply warns of the dangers of “wealth.” These dangers can include; being proud, putting our confidence in money instead of Jesus Christ, not totally trusting God, loving money, not being generous, neglecting the poor, and not being willing to share.

2.     Paul stated in 6:17, “Instruct those who are rich in this present world . . .” Based upon the disclosed annual income stats of people of the world as compared to the income of those in the USA, can we better grasp and understand our unique position regarding the amount of income and wealth we have in America today?

For many who fit the ages of “Millennials” and “Generation Z”, they have never lived in a time of depression, lived through wars (WW I or II, the Korean or Vietnam War), and they have not seen the rise and fall of socialism and communism. However, many believe they have never seen prosperity. They were brought up drinking expensive latte’s, working on computers, talking on iPhones, and buying items with one click on Amazon and having it delivered the same or next day. Most don’t know what it’s like to walk or bicycle to school, live without the internet or smartphones, or live without a nice car.

3.     In what ways have we taken for granted our “perceived” wealth position in America as we tend to only look and observe our neighbor’s around us? How might the Holy Spirit be challenging us to modify our limited perspective and change some of our lifestyle decisions?

4.     If open and willing, what financial observations and questions might we need to ask ourselves, ponder over, and pray about?

a. How can we better remember and keep in perspective our American level of income and wealth as compared to the rest of the world? What might the Holy Spirit be trying to tell us as Christian Believers living in the USA?

b.     For the younger generations, have we unintentionally become unappreciative, unsatisfied, or ungrateful? Have we unknowingly developed an “entitlement” mentality or problem?

c.     What of the above mentioned “issues” or “dangers” regarding wealth in the above quoted passages are we personally struggling with; and how willing are we to make any necessary changes?

d.     How can we better steward, manage, and share our American income and wealth for the cause of Christ, His Church (born again Believers), and the sharing of the Gospel with the lost?

May each of us be found willing to surrender to what the Bible teaches regarding our individual stewardship responsibilities, Christ’s Church, and caring for those around us and throughout the world? May God’s love, mercy, and grace, through the working of the Holy Spirit, be sufficient for each of us to faithfully follow through in making any needed changes.

For those reading our Loose Change articles who come to the realization that they are not 100% sure of their eternal salvation with God in heaven, contact our office and we will forward you the ABC’s of Salvation. This is a short, simple tool to help you evaluate your eternal destiny and assure that you can be eternally with God and Jesus Christ in heaven. “Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me.” (John 14:6)

September marked our 42nd anniversary of work and service through Barnabas Financial Ministry. We continually press forward in teaching God's Word, counseling those in need, and training others to teach and counsel in their own church and community. We continue with the goal of guiding people toward true financial freedom. We thank you for your partnership in helping make this all possible. To Him be the glory!