June 20, 2025

Book Recommendation: How to be Rich by Andy Stanley

Written by Harsono Setiono


image

Just admit it, you and I never felt we’re rich.  My friend is rich because he drives a G-wagon.  Rich is always the other person. Rich is having as much extra as the person who has more. Rich is having more than what we have.

In that case, we can be rich but don’t know it or feel it. That’s the problem with us.

You should never judge a book by its cover. This book is not what you may think it is.

Andy Stanley’s “How to Be Rich” is a deep and engaging book. He questions the usual ideas about wealth and success. This is not a finance book. There are no how-to-pick shares or how-to-start business tactics. This book isn’t only about getting rich. It’s also about changing how we see money. 

We need to understand what our financial choices mean for us and others. Andy Stanley is a well-known pastor and author in the US. He begins by addressing the belief that being rich is only about having a lot of money. He believes true wealth isn’t about how much money we have. It’s about the positive impact we make on the world and on others’ lives. 

This view is refreshing. It offers a welcome change from the materialistic messages found in the world today.

He shares stories and real-life examples to make his points clear. This approach connects his ideas to everyday life. This makes the book not only informative but also enjoyable to read. The main theme of the book is the idea of stewardship. We are reminded that we are just stewards of our resources. They are not ours to indulge, they are God’s. It’s our responsibility to use them wisely and generously. 

We need to stop chasing wealth for ourselves. Instead, we must use our resources to create positive change. We need to take a good look at how we’ve been using our money so far.

1 Timothy 6:18 states: “Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.” There is also an issue of contentment.  Trust me when I say this. The world never wants nor teaches us to be content. Hence, you see advertisements everywhere. 

In a world that links success to always wanting more, we need to be more grateful. We ought to be satisfied with what we have. True contentment comes not from acquiring more but from appreciating and making the most of what we already possess. Happiness and fulfillment depend on our attitudes and perspectives, not on outside circumstances. This is a powerful reminder.

He provides advice on budgeting, giving, and resource management. His approach reflects the values of generosity and stewardship. The main ideas of generosity, stewardship, and contentment are universal. Readers from all backgrounds can appreciate them.

In conclusion, “How to Be Rich” by Andy Stanley is a thought-provoking book. It encourages us to rethink our relationship with money. It gives a fresh view on wealth. It also shares useful tips for living generously and with purpose. 

If we want to use our money wiser or learn what it means to be truly rich, this book is a must-read. I’m sure it will have a lasting impact on us. You can get it wherever you buy books from.



Back to articles