Have you ever wondered what God has to say about finances? It’s time to learn the proven principles of Scripture concerning money management. Money by the Book provides Biblical solutions for you and your money. Chapters on contentment, giving, saving, getting out of debt, setting up a budget, teaching your children about money, how to reduce spending, and much more! (246 pages)
While Olson had a lot of practical tips for money management, I didn’t particularly enjoy the book. He took a lot of verses out of context and as a result talked in circles. For instance, he would quote Proverbs and call them promises, but then a few pages later say, but sometimes God chooses to test your faith even if you do everything right. I agree with the latter statement. That’s why they’re proverbs. They’re principles, not promises. He talked a lot about how God blesses givers, and so you need to give, even sacrificially, and God will provide. However, if you’re foolish about it, He isn’t obligated to provide. Olson then proceeded to tell a story about how he gave sacrificially (some would even say foolishly, to the point where he did not have grocery money) and God did provide. The entire book went in a similar fashion. He was also quite manipulative. “You’d better give because God commands it. If you don’t you’re going to be in big trouble. But, oh, by the way, don’t do it because you feel obligated.” There were some good reminders, and I did find the chapter on investing quite helpful.
If you want a comprehensive book on the basics of handling money Biblically this is your book. Dave Olson writes in a very clear manner. He is thorough in the topics he deals with. This book will either help you get started right as a young person or help you get on track as someone that has made a mess of things.