Biblical Answer

The Question of Affordability

When we face financial struggles, it's natural to wonder if we can afford the basics, let alone pay our bills. The Bible offers a unique perspective on this issue. In Isaiah 55:1-2, God invites us to come and eat without spending money, and to listen diligently to His words. This passage reminds us that our true sustenance comes from God, not from our bank accounts. However, Jesus' words in Matthew 6:31-34 seem to suggest that we should not worry about our physical needs, trusting that God will provide for us.

Understanding the Context of Affordability

The question of affordability is often tied to our perception of what we need to survive. When we prioritize our expenses, we may feel that we cannot afford to give to God or to others. However, Jesus teaches us to seek God's kingdom and His righteousness first (Matthew 6:33). This means that our financial priorities should be aligned with our spiritual values. When we tithe and give to God, we are not just giving money; we are investing in our relationship with Him and in the lives of those around us. As the Apostle Paul writes in Philippians 4:19, God is our supplier and provider, and He will meet our needs according to His riches in glory.

The Call to Trust and Obey

In the face of financial struggles, it's easy to feel overwhelmed and uncertain about our ability to afford the basics. However, the Bible calls us to trust in God's provision and to obey His commands, even when it seems impossible. As Jesus says in Matthew 6:25-34, we should not worry about our physical needs, but rather seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness. This means that we should prioritize our relationship with God and our spiritual growth, trusting that He will provide for our physical needs. When we obey God's commands and trust in His provision, we open ourselves up to His abundance and generosity, and we experience the freedom and joy that comes from living by faith. Ultimately, our affordability is not measured by our bank account, but by our trust in God's goodness and provision. As we seek to live by faith, we must be willing to let go of our own understanding of what we can and cannot afford, and instead trust in God's sovereignty and provision. By doing so, we can experience the peace and freedom that comes from living in obedience to God's commands.