And How You Can Measure and Build Yours
Have you ever wondered why some people build and maintain wealth, regardless of their background or starting point? It’s not always about luck or inheritance. Wealthy people often live by timeless principles—disciplines that create stability, growth, and legacy. These principles are not reserved for the elite. They are grounded in God-given wisdom and available to anyone willing to apply them.
“The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.” — Proverbs 21:5 (ESV)
In this post, we’ll explore 7 powerful principles wealthy individuals live by, how you can measure your own financial progress, and habits to start building a healthier relationship with money—God’s way.
1. Wealthy People Value Time Over Money
Wealthy individuals understand that time is their most valuable resource. They leverage their time by investing in systems, people, and opportunities that give them a return—financially, spiritually, or mentally. They don’t chase every cent; they prioritize investments that multiply their time or create freedom.
“So teach us to number our days, that we may gain a heart of wisdom.” — Psalm 90:12
How to Measure This:
- Track how much of your day is spent on tasks that produce income or long-term benefit.
- Assess how much of your income is actively earned vs. passively earned.
- Audit your weekly schedule: Is it aligned with your goals or just full?
Healthy Habit to Start:
- Use time-blocking to prioritize high-value activities.
- Delegate or automate tasks (scheduling apps, bulk meal prep, financial apps).
- Say no to low-return distractions.
2. Wealthy People Live Below Their Means
Instead of showing off wealth, many wealthy people live simply. Their lifestyle doesn’t inflate with their income. This creates margin for saving, investing, and giving generously.
“Better is a little with the fear of the Lord than great treasure and trouble with it.” — Proverbs 15:16
How to Measure This:
- Calculate your Savings Rate: (Monthly Savings / Monthly Income) x 100
- Keep your Living Expenses below 70% of your income.
- Monitor impulse purchases weekly.
Healthy Habit to Start:
- Create a “Zero-Based Budget” each month—assign every rand a purpose.
- Set lifestyle goals based on purpose, not pressure or comparison.
- Apply the 24-hour rule before big purchases.
3. Wealthy People Build an Emergency Buffer
Wealthy people prepare for the unexpected. Emergencies don’t derail them because they’ve built buffers through discipline.
How to Measure This:
- Save at least 3 months’ worth of expenses.
- Set a monthly savings goal (even if it’s just R200).
Healthy Habit to Start:
- Automate savings transfers on payday.
- Open a separate “buffer” account labeled “Peace Fund.”
4. Wealthy People Invest Consistently
Wealthy individuals don’t just save—they invest. They understand that money should work for them. Whether it’s real estate, the stock market, a business, or even digital products, wealthy people let their money multiply through wise, informed investments.
“Cast your bread upon the waters, for you will find it after many days.” — Ecclesiastes 11:1
How to Measure This:
- Track your Net Worth: Assets (what you own) – Liabilities (what you owe)
- Monitor your Investment ROI (Return on Investment) annually.
- Monitor investment growth annually.
Healthy Habit to Start:
- Commit to learning about one investment type each quarter (e.g., ETFs, gold, online stores).
- Start small: even R500/month invested is a start.
- Choose one new investment to learn about each quarter.
5. Wealthy People Protect What God Has Entrusted to Them
Wealthy people protect their assets and future. They don’t live in fear—but they steward wisely through insurance and property maintenance.
How to Measure This:
- Do you have cover for income, health, and assets?
- Track property values and returns (if applicable).
Healthy Habit to Start:
- Review your insurance annually.
- Set calendar reminders for home and car maintenance.
6. Wealthy People Protect Their Mindset
Your mindset about money shapes your outcomes. Wealthy individuals focus on growth, opportunity, and responsibility—not fear or scarcity. They are lifelong learners who regularly read, listen to mentors, and surround themselves with visionaries.
“As a man thinks in his heart, so is he.” — Proverbs 23:7
How to Measure This:
- Reflect monthly: Are your money decisions based on fear, faith, or wisdom?
- Journal your thoughts on money weekly.
- Journal: What money beliefs do you carry from childhood, and are they helping or harming?
Healthy Habit to Start:
- Read one faith-based finance book or listen to a podcast weekly.
- Replace “I can’t afford that” with “How can I afford this with wisdom?”
- Surround yourself with faith-driven, financially wise mentors.
7. Wealthy People Give Generously and Strategically
Wealthy people understand that giving doesn’t reduce wealth—it multiplies impact and often returns blessing. Whether it’s tithing, supporting community projects, or funding scholarships, they give purposefully and regularly.
“Give, and it will be given to you. A good measure, pressed down, shaken together and running over…” — Luke 6:38
How to Measure This:
- Track your Giving Rate: (Monthly Giving / Monthly Income) x 100
- Keep a gratitude and generosity log—see how your giving opens doors.
Healthy Habit to Start:
- Tithe faithfully and set up a monthly “Giving Budget” (even if small).
- Choose one cause to support regularly and watch God multiply your seed.
Bonus: 3 Simple Tools to Track and Build Your Wealth
- Net Worth Tracker: Update monthly to see how your assets grow.
- Money Journal or Faith & Finances Planner: Reflect on habits, spending triggers, and progress.
- Habit Tracker App: Use tools like Habitica, Notion, or a printable tracker to stay consistent.
Final Thoughts
Becoming wealthy—God’s way—is not about chasing money but aligning your habits with wisdom. These 7 principles can be your foundation, no matter where you’re starting from.
Remember, wealth is a tool. It should serve your purpose, not enslave your peace. It’s time to steward what’s in your hand and trust God for multiplication.
“The blessing of the Lord makes rich, and He adds no sorrow with it.” — Proverbs 10:22
Building wealth isn’t just about how much you make—but how well you manage, protect, and multiply what you have. The Bible teaches us that wisdom and stewardship lead to overflow—not just for ourselves, but for generations.
“A good man leaves an inheritance to his children’s children…” — Proverbs 13:22
Take Action Today:
✅ Download a free Wealth Habit Tracker https://1drv.ms/b/c/31558306aacbcff2/Ebc9csCKD7pFuLnJzIvV4GEBWvXvbY66BEejiESFTY8zvw?e=YAoiDV
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