Is a Lack of Savings Keeping You Anxious?
We’ve all been there. The feeling of your stomach dropping when an unexpected bill arrives or the dread of not knowing how you’ll manage if the car breaks down. It’s not a good feeling. But what if I told you that planning and saving money is not just smart but also something the Bible encourages? Let’s explore this together.
The Anxiety of No Savings
It’s no secret—when you’re living paycheck to paycheck, every unexpected expense feels like a crisis. Whether it’s a medical emergency or a sudden home repair, not having a financial cushion can leave you stressed out and scrambling. That sort of stress doesn’t just impact your wallet; it can take a toll on your health, your relationships, and even your faith.
What Does the Bible Say?
The Bible has some straightforward advice when it comes to saving and planning. Take Proverbs 21:20 for example, which says, “The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.” Or how about Proverbs 13:11? It tells us, “Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow.” These verses remind us that planning and saving are part of wise living.
Godly Wisdom and Financial Planning
The Bible is full of stories of people who showed financial wisdom. Remember Joseph? When he interpreted Pharaoh’s dream about seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine, he didn’t just sit back. He planned. He stored grain during the good years so that there would be enough to eat when the hard times came. That’s a great example of why it’s smart to plan ahead.
The Role of Trust in God
Now, you might think that planning for the future shows a lack of faith in God’s provision. But it’s quite the opposite. While it’s true that we should trust God, it’s also true that God often works through our actions. So, in a way, planning for the future is an act of faith. It shows that you trust God to give you the wisdom and discipline to prepare for what lies ahead.
Simple Steps to Start Saving
Getting started with saving doesn’t have to be overwhelming. First, know where your money is going. Create a simple budget that tracks your income and your expenses. Then, find areas where you can cut back. Maybe it’s that daily coffee or a subscription service you hardly use. Once you’ve found some extra money, put it into a savings account. Even a small amount each month can add up over time.
Prayer as a Part of Financial Planning
Don’t forget to bring God into your financial planning. Pray for wisdom to make good choices and for the discipline to stick to your plan. After all, James 1:5 says, “If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
Make Gradual Changes
You don’t have to change your whole life at once. Start with one or two small changes and build from there. It’s not about quick fixes; it’s about long-term change. And remember, you’re not doing this alone. God is with you every step of the way, guiding you and providing for you.
The Healing Power of Congruence
When your actions start to line up with your Christian beliefs, something amazing happens. You feel a sense of peace and joy that wasn’t there before. Your relationships start to improve because you’re not constantly stressed about money. And spiritually, you grow closer to God because you’re living in a way that honors Him.
So there you have it. Planning and saving for the future is not just a smart thing to do; it’s also a biblical one. It can relieve a lot of stress and anxiety, giving you the freedom to live a life that’s more in line with your Christian faith.
Why not take the first step today? Start by tracking your spending, finding areas to cut back, and putting a little aside each month. And don’t forget to pray for wisdom and discipline as you go. You’ll be amazed at the peace of mind a little planning can bring.