Trusting God in a Financial Crisis Paraugs

Day 6—God calls us to practice contentment.

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. — Philippians 4:12–13 (NIV)

In our culture, it’s easy to feel pressure to work like crazy and keep up with the Joneses, piling up stuff and chasing down the next purchase. The Bible warns us against the temptation to hoard our wealth, but instead encourages us to be “rich toward God” (Luke 12:21 NIV). This means that we should use everything in our lives (including our money) to honor God—not to build up our own little empires. You see, it’s okay to have stuff—but it’s not okay to let your stuff have you. 

If your happiness and stability are tied to your financial status, then your life will be a never-ending, empty chase. But trusting God’s provision gives you a supernatural peace that doesn’t change, even when your circumstances do. Contentment also sets you free from comparing yourself to people around you—which always leads to pride or discouragement.

Go back and reread our Scripture of the day. Go on—I’ll wait! Okay, did you know that when Paul wrote these words, he was in prison? Isn’t that crazy? He trusted God so deeply that he was able to be content, even in a horrible situation. Don’t you want that kind of power in your own life? When you place your trust in God and what He provides, you can loosen your grip on your money and possessions and simply enjoy what each day brings. 

One of the simplest ways to practice contentment is to give thanks. It’s hard to be hateful when you’re grateful! So, let’s wrap up today with these reflection questions and practical next steps: 

·  Make a list of 10 things you’re grateful for. 

·  Write a quick note or send a text to someone in your life who’s blessed you recently. 

·  Think about your life, both the good times and the bad. Whether you’re flat broke or sitting on a pile of cash, what would it look like for you to be completely content in any circumstance? 

In times of abundance and crisis, contentment is the key to experiencing joy.