A financial crisis can threaten your relationship with God and weaken your faith. But it doesn’t have to. These are the times when your faith and your family matter most, when you need guides on effective household management and parenting and support with financial worries. You will get through this struggle, because no struggle is permanent. Life has ups and downs, as you and your family have no doubt experienced. Having faith during a financial crisis sometimes comes down to remembering a few things that the Bible tells us.
Entrust Your Worries And Anxiety To God
These days, all of us are struggling with anxiety over money worries. The headlines are filled with dire warnings about the “coming days.” Rarely is there any good news for those who live paycheck to paycheck, treading water to just keep their heads above water.
You may even lose sleep over money worries. In the darkness and quiet of night, terrible thoughts may run through your mind. What if the car suddenly breaks down? What if the patch in the roof doesn’t hold up this winter? Where am I going to get the money for the rent this month? Thoughts like this aren’t productive. They keep you from getting rest and don’t lead to practical solutions.
In times like this, entrust your worries to God. The Bible says, “Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about you.” (1 Peter 5:7) This means that you are reminded that God is looking after you in times of turmoil. Sharing your anxiety and worries with God can help to relieve your burden. Know that God hears you and will help you.
Focus on Times of Happiness Even During Bad Times
No one is happy all the time just as no one is miserable all the time. Even those who have endured unimaginable suffering have found moments of happiness. Consider Anne Frank, who spent months hiding from the Nazis. Her diary shows us how she suffered. This young girl who should have been in the sunshine, laughing and playing with her friends and family had instead to hide in the darkness in close quarters, praying for safety and freedom. Yet, there are moments in young Anne’s diary where she writes of games, smiles and small bits of happiness. She was willing to allow these tiny bits of happiness to help her through the worst times of her short life.
You can do this, too. Surely there is something in your life that will bring you some happiness today. Even when everything seems bad, it’s not all bad. Find the simple joys in your day and focus on that bit of happiness. Through this, let God bring you strength so you can fight the tougher financial battles that you have to face. In Philippians 4:12-13 we read, “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.”
Demonstrate Generosity, Even in the Face of Your Own Struggles
The act of being generous is contagious, and it’s often an instinctive response to a kindness we have received. It is also a powerful weapon against fear, as it requires us to put our money towards what we believe in, rather than focusing on our own needs.
Recall a moment when you gave a special present to your children. It could have been a puppy on Christmas or a brand-new iPhone. Most parents attempt to do their best and take care of their kids. Seeing the look of joy on their faces when they get what they hoped for is gratifying. Similarly, God has a heart of generosity toward his children! “He gives good things to those who ask for them, and he delights in our joy,” says Matthew 7:9-12.
“God notices when we give, and He’s pleased by our generosity,” says Matthew 6:2-4. Even if your resources are limited, that is not of concern. You can still be generous with our time, abilities, and companionship. There are infinite chances to do so. Being generous even in the face of your own struggles demonstrates your faith and takes your mind off of your worries.
God does not want you to suffer. His plan was not for you to live in poverty, or to want for the essentials in life. But this world that we live in is influenced by forces other than God. Your suffering isn’t part of God’s plan. Cleave to your faith and don’t let financial worries weaken your relationship with God. His path is the way, the truth and the light, for you and your family.
