The Bible strongly mandates generosity and care for the needy, often urging radical giving (Luke 6:30). However, Christian giving must be balanced with wisdom, stewardship, and discernment. The Christian has a responsibility to ensure that their giving genuinely helps the recipient and does not enable destructive behavior (e.g., substance abuse) or support fraudulent requests. While the default impulse should be generosity, effective Christian charity involves seeking long-term transformation and focusing resources where they can do the most good, rather than simply dispensing money to every passerby.  

The Bible does not prohibit owning expensive or beautiful items, as many godly figures enjoyed wealth (e.g., Abraham, Solomon). However, the ethicality of purchasing luxury items hinges on the motive of the heart and the impact on stewardship. Luxury becomes unethical when it demonstrates idolatry (loving the item more than God), pride (boasting in wealth), or selfishness (indulging self while ignoring the poor) (1 Timothy 6:9-10). A purchase is ethically sound only if it is made with generous financial stewardship and does not compromise one's commitment to giving, caring for family, or maintaining humility.

The tithe (a mandatory 10%) was a specific law under the Old Covenant, and Christians today are not legally bound by it. Under the New Covenant, the focus shifts from a legal percentage to the principle of cheerful, sacrificial generosity (2 Corinthians 9:7). While God desires us to be generous, a Christian with tight finances should not view giving as a magic formula or a fearful debt. They must pray for wisdom, prioritize basic needs, and seek to give proportionally and willingly from whatever they have, trusting God with the consequences.

A Christian must not waste food. This practice dishonors God's provision (Psalm 145:15–16) and conflicts with the ethical duty to care for the poor (Matthew 25:42, 45). Jesus' direct command to "Gather the pieces that are left over. Let nothing be wasted" (John 6:12) is the standard for responsible stewardship. Believers should practice mindful consumption, planning, and generosity to ensure resources are used wisely.  

Is it wrong for a Christian to be rich? The Bible warns that the love of money is the root of evil (1 Timothy 6:10), making wealth a spiritual danger. We explore the call to radical generosity and humility for those who are wealthy.