Job loss, health problems, family conflicts, or bad investments can all result in unforeseen financial difficulties, which themselves may compound or cause more health or family problems. In a world where "financial stability" is more and more of an oxymoron, how can you provide for yourself and your family and be a wise steward of what God has given you?
Three qualities are the starting point to overcoming any financial struggle. First, cultivate contentment. Much of our stress comes when we compare ourselves or our possessions with others and what they acquired. When your focus shifts from what you don’t have to what you do have, you will often be amazed at how much God has already blessed you. Part of contentment is learning to live within your means. Stop using credit to purchase things you cannot afford now; if the item is truly a need, ask God to provide it (see Philippians 4:6-7, 11-13).
Generosity. God invites us to test Him in the area of tithing—giving 10% of one's gross income to the local church. If we do, He promises to bless us and to "rebuke the devourer" in our lives (see Malachi chapter 3). Cultivate a spirit of giving in your life. Even when you don’t have a lot of money, you can donate your time, talent, or possessions to help others.
Wisdom. Come up with a workable, written plan for your finances. You don’t have to have all the answers now, but think through options for your career, living situation, and ongoing expenses. Pray about which options to pursue and then break them down into practical steps. If you have any income, write up a budget, focusing on housing, food, utilities, and transportation. Prioritize your expenses and look for ways to cut costs—for example, give up your "land line" and keep just your cell phone; trade in a car with a high monthly payment for an older previously owned vehicle; use coupons at the grocery store instead of going out to eat.
Seek counsel from a trusted friend or Christian financial ad visor. Often someone else can offer a fresh look at your finances, seeing potential changes more clearly than you can. There are also many books, DVDs, programs, and other educational resources that talk about money management from a Biblical perspective.
Book Recommendations
Total Money Makeover
By: Dave Ramsey
Financial Peace Revisited
By: Dave Ramsey
The Financial Peace Planner
By: Dave Ramsey
Learning to Live Financially Free
By: Marybeth Whalen, Curt Whalen
The New Master Your Money: A Step-by-Step Plan for Gaining and Enjoying Financial Freedom
By: Ron Blue
Financial Survival in Uncertain Times
By: Deborah Smith Pegues
Surviving Financial Meltdown: Confident Decisions in an Uncertain World
By: Ron Blue, Jeremy White