By Jamie Oleka

As we approach Mother’s Day, I’m reminded of just how much value lies in the quiet, faithful work of motherhood. Moms shape homes, communities, and futures—often in unseen ways.

As moms, we make hundreds of choices every day—what to pack for lunch, how to stretch the family budget, whether to say yes to that field trip fee, or when to replace outgrown shoes. But there’s one choice many of us overlook, even though it’s one of the most powerful tools we have: where we spend our money.

In a world where it feels like big institutions and loud voices hold all the influence, I want to remind you: your dollar still counts. More than that, it speaks.

Scripture tells us in Luke 16:11, “If you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?” As believers, we’re called to be wise stewards. That includes how we manage our finances, yes, but also why we spend, where we spend, and who we are impacting with every dollar we release.

Your Purchases Are Your Platform

When you buy a product, you’re not just exchanging money but endorsing a system. You’re supporting someone’s livelihood, investing in a company’s values, and reinforcing the kind of economy you want your children to inherit.

That’s the beauty of a free-market system. Unlike centralized systems, where choice is taken from the people, capitalism gives us the power to decide. It rewards innovation, integrity, and service. But it only works when we show up as discerning and intentional consumers.

The Bible talks often about diligence, responsibility, and blessing others through our work. That same spirit applies to our spending. When we choose local businesses, faith-based brands, or companies that pay fair wages, we’re not just buying—we’re building.

Stewardship Starts with Small Decisions

It’s easy to think, What difference can I really make? But moms, we are the chief financial officers of our homes. We guide how money flows in and out. In fact, women influence over 85% of household purchasing decisions in the U.S.

So, let’s reframe those “small” decisions:

  • Buying groceries from a farmer’s market = investing in your neighbor.
  • Supporting a Christian bookstore = helping keep faith-centered resources in circulation.
  • Choosing brands that align with your values = standing up for ethics and excellence in the marketplace.

And when we teach our children to think this way—about how our faith meets our finances—we raise not just good spenders but faithful stewards and world changers.

The Public Square Needs Us

Right now, the public square—the place where ideas, values, and conversations shape society—is noisy. But that doesn’t mean we stay silent. In fact, the more chaotic the culture, the more clarity our faith-filled voices bring. And one way we show up? With our dollars.

Our spending can affirm truth, encourage good, and spark meaningful change. If we believe in justice, dignity, and opportunity for all, then we must use our purchasing power to reflect those values, not just in what we give at church or to nonprofits, but in our everyday lives.

Our dollars help lift up Christ-centered businesses, resource gospel-centered education, and even shift the focus of corporations. The more we connect our financial choices to our values, the more we disciple the culture around us.

Practical Ways to Start

You don’t need a finance degree or a massive budget to make an impact. You just need a plan and a perspective rooted in purpose.

  • Pray before big purchases: Ask God to guide your stewardship.
  • Research companies before you support them—see who they are behind the brand.
  • Teach your kids about value-driven spending (what a great discipleship opportunity!).
  • Support businesses that build up your community, especially those owned by women, people of faith, and entrepreneurs with a mission.
  • Talk about your spending choices—share with your friends why you shop where you do. Multiply your impact.

Faith + Finances = Lasting Influence

At the end of the day, your budget is more than numbers—it’s a reflection of your values, and in God’s hands, even our smallest financial choices can produce kingdom-sized outcomes. Don’t underestimate the ripple effect of your purchase. It can lead to jobs being created, values being preserved, and futures being changed. The marketplace may feel big, but your influence, especially as a mom, is bigger.

So the next time you swipe your card, take a moment and ask: What am I building with this dollar? Whose values am I affirming? Whose future am I shaping? Whether we realize it or not, our money is always saying something. Let’s make sure it’s speaking life.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jamie Oleka, Christ follower, wife, and mother, has extensive experience in K-12 and nonprofit management having most recently served as a Senior Fellow at Kentucky’s Council on Postsecondary Education. Jamie holds a Masters of Education in Instructional Accommodations from Francis Marion University, Masters of Arts in Teaching, and Ed.S. in K-12 Administration from the University of Louisville.