It can be hard to pay the bills and take care of our families on a low income. However, with God’s help and wisdom, it is possible.
Sometimes, for all kinds of reasons, we can find ourselves struggling on a low-income level. When we do, we can find it challenging to pay the bills, support our family and experience a sense of security. Additionally, a low income can increase our stress and add tension within our relationships, particularly with our spouses. However, as difficult as it can be at times, we can take steps to help cope with these adverse effects and even begin to navigate our way through it with a sense of peace.
One of the first things we can do is accept that a low income does not degrade us in the eyes of God. Nor does it prevent us from having a close relationship with God. Money in and of itself has no bearing on how God sees us. Instead, the type of attitude we have towards money can be the problem. You can have an unhealthy, sinful attitude towards money, whether rich or poor. Likewise, you can possess a generous, grateful and God-fearing attitude, whether rich or poor.
The apostle Paul understood this truth, which was why he was able to say, “I have learned to be content whatever the circumstances. I know what it is to be in need, and I know to have plenty. I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or want. I can do all this through him who gives me strength” (Philippians 4:11-13).
In reading that, you might be tempted to say, “Yeah, but you didn’t have a family to care for Paul”. But remember that Paul was imprisoned when he wrote this, and he faced difficulties that you and I will probably never encounter.
That said, what I find most interesting about this passage is that it indicates there were times when Paul lived in abundance. In other words, he wasn’t constantly struggling with a lack of money or resources. Yet whether in times of poverty or wealth, Paul had learned to be satisfied with what he had. One of the reasons he could do this was he knew that his financial situation did not change His relationship with God. He knew God was with him no matter the situation and would strengthen him to be able to handle anything.
Paul’s circumstances and his income never affected his relationship with God.
So, one of the first necessary steps to handling life on a low income is to realise you can have a close, healthy relationship with God no matter your financial situation. Of course, this point might seem obvious. However, it’s an important point to contemplate and accept. When you do, it will encourage you and help you find peace despite the financial pressures.
