What to Do When You’re Feeling Stressed About Finances
Money isn’t generally something we talk about, yet it’s safe to say we all think about it on a regular basis. It’s a part of our lives, whether we like it or not. And being stressed about finances happens to every single one of us at some point. We know the basics… saving money is good. Overspending is bad. But what if you’re just trying to make ends meet? How do we cope with the stress of simply trying to make everything happen financially that needs to happen?
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- Take it to God.
Taking our worries to God isn’t just a nice idea. It’s commanded of us as Believers. In fact, worrying is a sin. Because the truth is that when you are worrying about something, you aren’t trusting God fully to meet your needs in that area of your life. We are told to trust in the God with ALL our heart and to lean NOT on our own understanding. There’s no better place to put this into practice than our finances.
- Make sure God has called you to do what you’re doing.
We all have areas in our lives where money has to be spent. Food, clothing, shelter… our basic needs require us to spend. But there are other areas of our finances that are optional. We spend money on things like entertainment, vehicles, vacations, etc. Now for some of us, these may feel like needs. Unfortunately, it’s hard to function these days without proper transportation, and we all need to rest from our work from time to time. But when it comes to these “extras” be sure you are in prayer. Involving God in your finances is a must. He always provides for the things He has called you to do.
- Walk by faith, not by sight.
Now, I’m not suggesting that you go out and buy something extravagant expecting God to foot the bill. When it comes to walking by faith instead of sight, there are two crucial things to remember. One is that God promised to meet all of our basic needs. And God ALWAYS keeps His promises. Secondly, when God calls you to do something that requires funds, you can trust that He will provide. I’ve heard countless stories of people being called into ministry or to give in some way only for God to provide all that they needed to accomplish the task. God will never call you to something and leave you empty-handed. He always equips us for what He has called us to do.
- Be smart and proactive about your finances.
The book of Proverbs is filled with practical wisdom regarding nearly every aspect of life. God cares about our everyday lives and tasks…. even the mundane things like work and bills. We are called to be good stewards of all that God has blessed us with and that includes our finances. Being good stewards means that we strive to be smart. We learn from those around us, take courses if necessary, and work diligently to provide for our families in the best way we know how.
And the rest… the stuff we can’t control… trust that God will do His part to work out all things for our good and for His glory.
God never intended for us to be stressed about finances. That’s why He’s called us to be smart and trust Him with the rest.
*Unless otherwise indicated, Scripture quotations taken from the NASB.
**Photo by Ben White at ChristianPics.co
