Should You Let ChatGPT Determine Your Next Financial Move?

Artificial intelligence is showing up everywhere these days, from writing emails to planning vacations and even answering our financial questions. It’s fast. It’s available 24/7. And it seems to know a little something about everything. So the question arises: Should you let a tool like ChatGPT determine your next financial move?

As Christians, our financial decisions are not just financial decisions. They are spiritual ones. We are called to manage God’s resources in a way that honors Him, blesses others, and reflects our trust in Christ. So before letting AI steer your money, it’s important to step back and evaluate both the benefits and the drawbacks through a biblical lens.

The Pros of Using ChatGPT 

1. It’s quick and accessible.

When a financial question pops into your mind, ChatGPT can immediately provide helpful information. No appointment necessary. No consultation fee required. It can serve as a simple starting point when you need clarity or direction on a particular topic.

2. It simplifies complex topics.

Let’s be honest: the financial world can feel like alphabet soup—IRAs, HSAs, ETFs, 529s. These things can be intimidating. ChatGPT can break down complicated concepts into practical, understandable language, helping you take your next step with more confidence.

3. It helps you explore smart options.

ChatGPT can offer multiple strategies to consider, such as how to pay off debt, where to start with investing, or what type of insurance you may need. It can lay out the options so you can better evaluate what might work best for your situation.

4. It removes emotion from the equation.

Fear and stress often drive poor financial decisions. AI doesn’t panic. It doesn’t get impatient. It can help you slow down and think more rationally, which is a real benefit when the pressure is high. 

5. It can support stronger stewardship.

When used appropriately, AI tools can actually help you become a better steward—encouraging informed decisions that can lead to greater margin, peace, and generosity.

The Cons of Using ChatGPT

1. It’s not a licensed advisor or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CERTCFC®).

ChatGPT can provide insights, but it cannot replace a professional who understands your full financial picture, including your debts, income, goals, risks, and family needs.

2. It doesn’t know your life.

Everyone’s financial situation is unique. Without understanding your personal circumstances, ChatGPT may overlook important nuances that could dramatically change the right next move for you.

3. It doesn’t always offer a biblical perspective.

While you can ask ChatGPT to evaluate finances from a Christian worldview, that’s not its default mode. It doesn’t automatically include topics like contentment, generosity, or honoring God with money. Tools like this must be filtered through Scripture.

4. It can be wrong.

Financial laws and products change constantly. AI can misunderstand your question or base answers on outdated information. That means anything it suggests must be checked and confirmed.

5. It cannot help you discern God’s will.

You can’t outsource prayer or obedience. AI can provide data, but it cannot tell you where the Holy Spirit is leading or how God wants to use your finances for eternal impact.

A Wise and Biblical Approach

Proverbs 15:22 tells us, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed.” Tools like ChatGPT can be one of those advisers—but just one.

Here’s a healthy decision-making process:

First, pray and seek God.

Second, study Scripture for foundational financial principles.

Third, ask knowledgeable believers and trusted financial professionals.

Fourth, consider a biblically-based program, like 8 Money Milestones.

Fifth, utilize resources such as books, articles, and ChatGPT to learn and explore various options.

Finally, when AI is used in partnership with prayer, wise counsel, and biblical truth, it can serve as a helpful tool rather than a harmful influence.

So, should you let ChatGPT determine your next financial move? Probably not. But can it help you better understand the financial decisions ahead? Absolutely.

Use technology. But trust God. He is the true source of wisdom, and the One who owns every dollar in your wallet.