For most people, financial uncertainty is something that is faced at one point or another. For Christians who go through financial difficulties, we have a loving God to rely upon, to give us faith that all will turn out according to His will.

A friend recently confided in me that he has not finding himself able to trust God’s provision. A year ago, his home’s septic broke, and he did not have the money to fix it. Facing another winter of showering and laundering at other people’s houses, he began doubting that God would provide. He started Christian financial counseling and eventually managed to save enough money to repair the septic, but he felt that he had been abandoned by God during his time of need. How can he and others like him trust God when it seems like He isn’t providing?

1. Keep a Gratitude Journal

If you are reading this article, you have the subject of money on your mind. Undoubtedly, financial hurdles are a reality in your life, be it in the past or present. When financial insecurities arise or you worry about how you are going to make this months credit card payments, take a few moments to count the dozens of blessings you do receive every day. Write down even the simplest of things- that meal you had with a friend, the unexpected refund from a utility company and the blanket you pick up instead of turning on your heat on a cold day. These things that we often take for granted are blessings.

As you focus on your blessings, your faith in God’s provision will grow. Starting every day with a gratitude journal will put you in good spirits.

2. Pray Honestly

In addition to recording all the ways God provides, consider writing down your emotions and thoughts. Like the psalmist David, your honest emotions become prayers as you pour out your fears that God won’t provide and your frustrations about your financial situation. If possible, share your struggles with a trusted friend or and pray together regularly.

3. Meditate on Scripture

God reminds us in His word that He does provide. Meditate, think on and memorize powerful scriptures like:

Matthew 6:28-31: “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin….If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’”
Luke 12:24-26: “Consider the ravens: They do not sow or reap, they have no storeroom or barn; yet God feeds them. And how much more valuable you are than birds! Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to your life? Since you cannot do this very little thing, why do you worry about the rest?”
Philippians 4:19: “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.”

4. Speak with a Christian Debt Advisor

Approaching finances from a Christian perspective is critical as you trust God to provide. You may need assistance in maintaining a household budget, reducing debt or talking with your spouse about money. Seek godly counsel as you wait on God to meet your needs. It can often be difficult to reach out to a stranger for help, but in the end you may find the right solution for you.

God’s timing is always perfect, but it is very easy for us to question whether or not He will provide. Instead of doubting, take advantage of these four tips that will build your trust. Then, wait with patient trust for His provision.