Faith over Fear: Five Tips to Financial Peace in Anxiety

Finding Peace in "Anxious for Nothing": Trusting in God’s Provision

John MacArthur’s book Anxious for Nothing: God's Cure for the Cares of Your Soul offers profound insights into how believers can overcome anxiety by trusting in God's sovereignty and provision. One of the key themes in MacArthur's book is the importance of relying on God's care, especially when it comes to financial worries. By reflecting on biblical teachings, such as those involving the birds of the air, we can learn to cast our anxieties upon God and trust Him completely.

The Lesson of the Birds

In Matthew 6:26, Jesus says, "Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they?" This verse underscores the providential care of God. Birds do not worry about their next meal, yet they are provided for. How much more, then, will God provide for His children, who are of greater value to Him?

Birds chirp up to God, asking Him to provide them with food. God doesn’t just rain down worms from the sky. While there are biblical examples like the Israelites in the desert receiving manna, in everyday life, we won't see food falling from the sky. Should we then worry about our next meal, clothing, or shelter? No. Birds don’t worry because God designed them to instinctively find food. They must put in effort and energy to gather it. Are you not worth more than a bird? Of course you are. God sent His only Son to die for you, not for birds. If God takes care of the birds and lets them know what to do daily, how much more will He care for you?

God is the ultimate provider. Being a Christ-follower in biblical times could mean losing income or status, leading to serious concerns about basic needs. The faith God requires is one where we trust Him completely, knowing He made us to work diligently and that He will always provide for us. This is the purpose of faith in Him—total reliance on Him in every situation.

Philippians 4:6-7 reassures us: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." This passage emphasizes the power of prayer and thanksgiving in overcoming anxiety, trusting that God will guard our hearts and minds.

It is not a suggestion from God not to worry but a commandment to not be anxious. This doesn't discount medical conditions that affect anxiety; however, the anxiety discussed here stems from habitual worry. By worrying, we tell God—the God of Peace and Provider—that He cannot solve our problems. We imply that He is too small or not mighty enough to bear our burdens, fix our issues, or care about the intimate details of our lives. But God does care and wants us to depend on Him completely.

Financially, both the rich and the poor can fall into the trap of not truly trusting God. The rich worry about losing their wealth, while the poor worry about meeting their basic needs. Both focus on money instead of the Creator. Our money isn't really ours; we are merely stewards of what He provides in our allotted time. Understanding our value to God helps us realize how much He cares for us and desires to hear and support us. This is serving the true Master. We cannot serve two masters; our heart must serve either mammon or God, regardless of our socioeconomic status.

If you are like me and want practical advice, here are five tips:

Five Tips for Trusting God with Your Finances

1. Meditate on God’s Promises

   Regularly read and meditate on scriptures that highlight God’s provision and faithfulness. Verses such as Matthew 6:31-33 ("So do not worry, saying, 'What shall we eat?' or 'What shall we drink?' or 'What shall we wear?' For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.") can strengthen your faith and remind you of God's promises.

2. Seek Godly Counsel

   Proverbs 15:22 says, "Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers they succeed." Seek advice from financially wise and spiritually mature individuals in your church or community. They can offer guidance and support, helping you make sound financial decisions while maintaining trust in God.

3. Simplify Your Lifestyle

   Reducing unnecessary expenses can alleviate financial pressure and help you focus on what truly matters. By living more simply, you can avoid the trap of materialism and reinforce your reliance on God's provision. 1 Timothy 6:6-8 reminds us, "But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that."

4. Invest in Eternal Treasures

   Jesus teaches in Matthew 6:19-21, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Prioritize investments in God's kingdom through charitable giving, missions, and other kingdom-focused endeavors, trusting that God will provide for your earthly needs.

5. Spend Time in Prayer and Silence with God

   Dedicate regular time to be alone with God in silence, praying and listening for His guidance. This quiet time can help you hear God’s voice more clearly, providing peace and direction regarding your finances. Psalm 46:10 says, "Be still, and know that I am God." In these moments of stillness, you can deepen your trust in His provision and care.

Conclusion

By incorporating these additional tips into your life, you can further strengthen your trust in God's provision and reduce financial anxiety. John MacArthur's Anxious for Nothing offers timeless wisdom, reminding us that our heavenly Father knows our needs and is faithful to provide. As we meditate on His promises, seek godly counsel, simplify our lives, invest in eternal treasures, and spend time in silent prayer, we can experience His peace and provision in all circumstances.