What could be more valuable than money? Believe it or not, there are assets more valuable than money. Scripture reveals numerous assets that have superior value to money. Below are five examples with supporting biblical references.

KNOWLEDGE AND WISDOM: Knowledge is the understanding of how God’s universe works and wisdom is the skill to live well in God’s universe. Both are more valuable than any tangible asset.

Take my instruction instead of silver,

and knowledge rather than choice gold,

for wisdom is better than jewels,

and all that you may desire cannot compare with her.

(Proverbs 8:10–11 ESV)

REPUTATION: A great reputation cannot be bought; it is earned and is far more valuable than any material wealth.

A good name is more desirable than great riches;

to be esteemed is better than silver or gold.

(Proverbs 22:1 NIV)

SECURITY: To presume that one is secure because of an abundance of tangible assets is an indicator of deception. Real security is found in Christ alone.

For you say, I am rich, I have prospered, and I need nothing, not realizing that you are wretched, pitiable, poor, blind, and naked. (Revelation 3:17 ESV)

CONTENTMENT: Contentment cannot be bought with money. Contentment comes from a profound sense of the sovereign, strategic, intentional, good, and personal nature of God. Therefore, one who knows God will have the requiste resources for life. Living in this reality is true contentment.

I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength. (Philippians 4:12–13 NIV)

HOPE: The primary purpose of good works is not to make money. Rather good works are actions that should reflect the character and nature of God. Therefore, one’s hope should not be in material wealth but in God.

Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life. (1 Timothy 6:17–19 NIV)

A key principle for managing an organization is to value what God values most, that is, true wealth. Temporal wealth is simply a training tool and a resource to be used to serve the purpose of God in this existence.

Here is your business tip. The correct measure of organizational success is not temporal wealth but true wealth. Wise managers understand that temporal wealth (money) is a tool—it is an asset to be stewarded for a higher purpose. The higher purpose is alignment with the will and ways of God. Money should be used to acquire true wealth. For example, use money to build a stellar reputation. True wealth is seen in the quality of the stakeholders and the excellence of their value proposition. An excellent value proposition will reflect values that are important to God and bless those the organization is called to serve.