Topical Encyclopedia Frugality, the practice of being economical with resources and avoiding waste, is a principle that finds strong support in the Scriptures. The Bible encourages believers to exercise wisdom and restraint in their use of material possessions, emphasizing the importance of stewardship and contentment.Proverbs 21:20 · "Precious treasures and oil are in the dwelling of the wise, but a foolish man consumes them." This verse highlights the wisdom in conserving resources and the folly of squandering them. The wise person is depicted as one who stores up valuable resources, while the foolish one uses them up without thought for the future. Proverbs 13:11 · "Dishonest wealth will dwindle, but what is earned through hard work will be multiplied." Here, the emphasis is on the value of honest labor and the dangers of acquiring wealth through deceitful means. Frugality is linked to the idea of earning and saving through diligent work rather than seeking quick and dishonest gains. Proverbs 6:6-8 · "Go to the ant, O sluggard; consider her ways and be wise. Without a commander, without an overseer or ruler, she prepares her bread in summer and gathers her food at harvest." The ant is presented as a model of frugality and foresight, diligently preparing and storing resources for future needs. This passage encourages believers to be proactive and prudent in managing their resources. Ecclesiastes 5:10 · "He who loves money is never satisfied by money, and he who loves wealth is never satisfied by income. This too is futile." The pursuit of wealth for its own sake is portrayed as ultimately unsatisfying. Frugality, in contrast, is associated with contentment and the wise use of what one has, rather than an insatiable desire for more. 1 Timothy 6:6-8 · "Of course, godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and neither can we carry anything out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with these." This passage underscores the importance of contentment and the sufficiency of basic necessities. Frugality is seen as a component of godliness, where satisfaction is found not in abundance but in the essentials. Luke 12:15 · "Then He said to them, 'Watch out! Guard yourselves against every form of greed, for one’s life does not consist in the abundance of his possessions.'" Jesus warns against greed and the misconception that life is defined by material wealth. Frugality is implied as a safeguard against the dangers of greed, encouraging believers to focus on spiritual rather than material riches. Matthew 6:19-21 · "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." This teaching of Jesus directs believers to prioritize eternal values over earthly wealth. Frugality is aligned with the pursuit of heavenly treasures, emphasizing the transient nature of material possessions. Philippians 4:11-12 · "I am not saying this out of need, for I have learned to be content regardless of my circumstances. I know how to live humbly, and I know how to abound. I am accustomed to any and every situation—to being filled and being hungry, to having plenty and having need." The Apostle Paul speaks of contentment in all circumstances, whether in abundance or scarcity. Frugality is reflected in the ability to adapt and remain satisfied regardless of one's material situation. These scriptures collectively advocate for a lifestyle of frugality, characterized by wise management of resources, contentment with what one has, and a focus on spiritual rather than material wealth. Nave's Topical Index 1 Kings 17:5,6,10-13So he went and did according to the word of the LORD: for he went and dwelled by the brook Cherith, that is before Jordan. Nave's Topical Index Proverbs 11:16 Proverbs 12:27 Proverbs 13:22 Proverbs 21:17,20 Proverbs 22:3 Proverbs 23:20,21 Proverbs 31:27 Matthew 14:20 Matthew 15:37 Mark 7:28 Mark 14:4,5 Ephesians 4:28 Library Shakers, or the United Society of Believers. Ascetic. Clement of Alexandria. part ii. Chapter xlvi part iii. An Account of the Organization of the Methodist Episcopal Church ... Homilies on the Gospel of John. The Life and Passion of Cyprian, Bishop and Martyr. Of the Discipline of the Church, and Its Principal Use in Censures ... Resources Did David rape Bathsheba? | GotQuestions.orgHow should a Christian relate to non-Christian friends? | GotQuestions.org What is kingdom theology? | GotQuestions.org Careful: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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