How should a Christian respond to a financial crisis?

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TL;DR:

During a financial crisis, a Christian can trust in God’s character and provision. A financial crisis can be an opportunity to thank God for His goodness, provision, and sovereignty over all things including the economy.

from the old testament

  • God provides for our needs and gives us all that is good. "The young lions suffer want and hunger; but those who seek the LORD lack no good thing" (Psalm 34:10).
  • A financial crisis is an opportunity to remember where our help comes from: God (Psalm 121:2).

from the new testament

  • Money does not protect us nor provide for our needs; God does (Matthew 6:31–34; Luke 12:22–31). A financial crisis is an opportunity to remember that God provides what we need.
  • A financial crisis is an opportunity for us to be witnesses of God's ultimate authority over the earth by trusting Him to provide for our needs (Philippians 4:11–20).

implications for today

With a foundation of trust in God established, we can then take some practical steps in response to a financial crisis. We can start by reflecting on how we got into our current situation. It is important to ask ourselves if we have sinned and, consequently, put ourselves in this situation. If that is the case, we need to repent and pray for forgiveness. We should also consider how we handle our money; if we have handled it irresponsibly, we should make changes to steward our finances better in the future. God can use this difficult time to teach us and help us grow more mature in our faith.

After reflecting we should make a plan for moving forward. Likely we will need to make some changes. This may require us to limit our spending on non-essentials, pursue more education, or get a new job. We might have to humble ourselves and accept help for a period of time until we can get back on our feet. In addition, we should set up investments and savings plans to prepare us for future financial setbacks.

Things most likely will not change for the better overnight. It is crucial that we remember our blessings and give thanks for what we do have. Also, we should continue to help others as we are able. A financial crisis is not a time for us to worry as the world does. Instead it is an opportunity for us to be witnesses of God's ultimate authority over the earth by trusting Him to provide for our needs (Philippians 4:11–20).

understand

  • A financial crisis is an opportunity to trust in God’s sovereignty and goodness.
  • A financial crisis is an opportunity to remember that God provides for our needs.
  • A financial crisis is an opportunity to work while trusting in God’s provision and helping others do the same.

reflect

  • How can you remind yourself of God’s sovereignty and provision during times of financial uncertainty?
  • How do your financial habits align with biblical principles of stewardship?
  • How can you trust God to meet your needs while taking practical steps to manage your finances wisely prior to a financial crisis?

engage

  • How can we encourage others to trust in God’s provision during a financial crisis, rather than giving in to fear or worry?
  • What does Philippians 4:11–20 teach us about contentment and trusting in God during financial hardships?
  • How can our response to a financial crisis serve as a witness to others of God’s authority and faithfulness?