Whenever I think about money, my chest feels tight and my mind starts racing. Everything is getting more expensive, and the job market feels scary. I want to believe God will provide but I struggle to trust Him.
Thank you for your honest question. I really appreciate how you connect your financial stressors, your body’s response, and your mind. You are touching on something really important. Often the nervous system responds before our theology can catch up. This is the body’s way of trying to protect you when life feels out of control: when you lose a job, can’t pay your bills, or just feel overwhelmed by the future. If you’re feeling that, take heart: it doesn’t mean you’re faithless. It means you’re human.
When financial anxiety shows up in this way, the invitation is not to ignore it or immediately “pray it away,” but to first slow down and listen. Begin by grounding yourself. Take a deep breath. Let your breath remind your body that you are safe in God’s presence. This is where faith begins: not by skipping over fear, but by entering it honestly, with God.
Let’s be honest though. When anxiety spikes, it can be hard to believe that God is present. When fear rises, faith sometimes retreats. But the truth is that God meets you in the place of fear. In Matthew 6:25–34, Jesus speaks to people living with very real financial uncertainty. They are worried about feeding their families and getting their kids new clothes for the upcoming school year. And yet, Jesus’ response is not a simplistic “don’t worry,” but a call to trust a good God and Father. He reminds them, “Your Father knows what you need.” He says, “Seek first the kingdom.” And this is our invitation too.
That said, anxiety isn’t just a spiritual issue. It is also an emotional and physiological response to stress. This means that there are small steps we can take to “seek first the kingdom” which might not be initially obvious.
1. Breathe and Pray – When panic rises, pause. Breathe slowly and deeply. Then, pray honestly: “Lord, I’m scared. Help me trust You today.” Invite God into your worry instead of hiding it.
2. Stay Present – Anxiety often lives in “what if” scenarios. God promises daily bread, not tomorrow’s surplus. What do you need right now at this moment?
3. Seek Wise Counsel – Financial anxiety can often be eased by practical help. Talk to a financial advisor, a pastor, or a trusted mentor. There is no shame in needing support or learning new skills.
4. Remember God’s Past Faithfulness – Reflect on times when God came through for you. Write them down. His past provision can fuel present trust.
Economic uncertainty may shake our sense of control, but it can also deepen our dependence on God. Let your fear become a doorway to greater faith, not an endless loop of anxious thoughts late at night. He is still your Provider—faithful, generous, and present—even in the midst of financial storms.
