As a Christian, teaching kids about money isn’t about dollar signs. It’s about discipleship. For first-time fathers, the goal isn’t to raise future millionaires. It’s to raise wise stewards who understand God’s role as the Provider and their role as managers. And it all starts with simple, everyday moments.
Teaching biblical money habits doesn’t require a finance degree. What it does require is attention, intentionality, and a willingness to let your kids into the conversations you’re already having about money.
Key Takeaways
- Teaching kids about money from a Christian perspective begins with understanding that everything belongs to God and we are called to be stewards.
- Everyday errands—like grocery shopping—can become practical lessons in budgeting, contentment, and wise decision-making.
- The give-save-spend method helps kids build foundational habits that connect biblical principles to real-life financial choices.
- Money should be seen as a tool for stewardship, not a measure of identity, and dads should help their kids navigate culture’s confusing messages.
- Fathers don’t need to know everything—they just need to stay teachable, look for teachable moments, and lead with humility and faith.
Start With the Foundation: God Owns It All
The first principle of teaching kids money (Christian dads, take note) is this: it’s not their money. Or yours. It all belongs to God.
Psalm 24:1 says, “The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein.” That means our job is not to own—it’s to steward. One of the best ways to build financial literacy is to first grasp that you’re managing what belongs to Someone else.
Explain this to your kids through simple moments—like when they get birthday money. Instead of saying, “What do you want to buy?” ask, “How do you think God wants you to use this gift?”
Grocery Store = Budget Bootcamp
One of the best real-life money classrooms is your weekly trip to the store. Whether it’s groceries, back-to-school supplies, or a run for paper towels, take your kids with you—and talk while you shop.
Say things like, “We have $10 to spend on snacks this week. Should we get one box of the expensive cookies or two of the store brand?” This teaches them to prioritize and work within limits.
Moments like these are where a father’s own financial literacy comes in handy. You’re not just teaching your kids to compare prices—you’re modeling self-control and stewardship.
Give, Save, Spend—Repeat
Christian dads can begin teaching kids money habits with the classic trio: give, save, and spend. Use three jars (or digital apps, if they’re older) to separate money into categories. Then, let them decide how to use each jar—with your guidance.
Proverbs 21:20 reminds us that “Precious treasure and oil are in a wise man’s dwelling, but a foolish man devours it.” Saving is wise. Devouring is foolish. And kids will almost always want to devour. That’s where you come in.
When they save up for something, make it a big deal. Celebrate delayed gratification. And when they give, whether it’s to church or a need they see, pause to remind them of 2 Corinthians 9:7, where God loves a cheerful giver.
This is where you connect the dots between biblical financial provision and daily life. Instead of looking after our own needs and wants first, we should give first and then steward the rest wisely in our own lives.
Money Isn’t the Enemy, But It’s Not the Goal
Jesus talked about money regularly—not because it’s evil, but because it reveals our hearts. As you raise your children, be clear: money is a tool, not a trophy.
Matthew 6:21 says, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Teaching your kids to handle money wisely means helping them avoid making it their identity. Point out how advertising can influence desires, and how more stuff does not bring true satisfaction.
As dads, we need this reminder just as much as our kids do. If you’re feeling behind financially or unsure where to begin, take heart—you’re not alone. And you’re not stuck. Start small. Build good money habits. Invite your kids into the process.
Real Talk Leads to Real Growth
Use real financial decisions as conversation starters. When you choose to skip a purchase, explain why. When a bill shows up, show them how you plan for it. When you tithe, let them know why it matters.
These aren’t “deep-dive family meetings.” They’re tiny breadcrumbs of financial wisdom laid over time. Every receipt, every decision, every grocery run is a chance to teach. First-time dads don’t need a curriculum. They just need eyes to see the moments that are already there.
A Bonus Tip for Dads: Keep Learning
Leading your kids well financially starts with being willing to grow yourself. You don’t have to be a CPA or investment guru, but you do need a working understanding of money—what it is, how it works, and how to model God-honoring use of it.
Related Questions
At what age should you start teaching kids about money?
As early as they understand basic numbers—around age 3 to 5—is a great time to begin.
How does God want us to view money?
God calls us to view money as a tool for stewardship, not as a source of identity or security.
What does Jesus teach about money?
Jesus teaches that money reveals the heart and warns against storing up earthly treasure over heavenly treasure.
What is the best way to teach children about money?
Use real-life moments to model wise habits and involve kids in simple decisions like giving, saving, and spending.
