Inflation, a topic that frequently surfaces in conversations, has become a pressing concern for many Americans. While the name-calling and blame-shifting surrounding it may be intense, let’s focus on the reality that most of us are experiencing: our money doesn’t stretch as far as it used to.
If you’re reading this update, you might have already had several family meetings to figure out how to stretch your monthly income. It’s common to find that there’s more month than money. On top of that, many of us are helping out family members, supporting our local church, and contributing to missionaries. In these uncertain times, I want to offer some encouragement. Consider these principles:
First, the Bible reminds us that cheerful generosity brings a harvest. 2 Corinthians 9:6–7. Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
Secondly, giving to the hurting and the needy carries a reward. Matthew 6:3-4. But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you. God never promises that we will be wealthy in this world, or even that we’ll always have as much as we want, but He does promise to supply our needs and to give us joy, peace, and contentment in the midst of difficult times.
Thirdly, seek first the kingdom of God, and all necessary things will be added to us. Matthew 6:3 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. This reminds us of where our priority should be. In 2 Timothy 2:3-4, Christ-followers are compared to soldiers. A bad economy will not be a major concern for a soldier because his focus is elsewhere. We are to manage money wisely, but it is reckless to place trust in money or anything else in this world that is so easily lost.