Even if you have a hard time believing it right now, God does care about you, and He hasn’t forgotten you. God’s words to Joshua thousands of years ago are also true for you: “The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you…. Do not be discouraged” (Deuteronomy 31:8).

And God also is able to help you — and He will, as you seek His wisdom and strength. Does this mean God will suddenly take away all your financial problems, without any effort on your part? No, it doesn’t — but it does mean He’ll help you deal with your problems, perhaps in ways you never expected.

How can God help you? He’ll help you first of all by giving you practical wisdom about your money problems. For example, He wants to help you to develop a realistic family budget (perhaps with the assistance of someone who is knowledgeable about finances). He also wants to help you find ways to limit your expenses by cutting out things that aren’t really necessary. If you’re out of work, be willing to consider job retraining; ask Him to guide you to the right program.

In addition, learn to thank God for what you do have, and don’t let grumbling or discontent poison your soul — and your family. Most of all, put Christ first in your life, and trust Him in everything. Then you’ll be able to say with the Apostle Paul, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances” (Philippians 4:11).