Biblical Answer

The Root of Guilt and Anxiety: Fear and Unmet Expectations

You may feel guilty about not being able to pay your bills because you have unrealistic expectations about your financial situation. Many people, especially in Western societies, are accustomed to getting what they want when they want it, and this can create a sense of entitlement. When your spending habits, such as credit card debt, prevent your family's needs from being met, it can lead to feelings of guilt and anxiety. This is often accompanied by fear about the future, such as fear of not being able to pay bills or fear of financial instability.

The Bible teaches us that God is sovereign over all creation, including our finances. Psalm 37:25 says, "I have been young, and now am old, yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken or their children begging bread." This verse reminds us that God will never leave us or forsake us, and that He will provide for our needs. However, this does not mean that we will never face financial challenges or difficulties. The Bible also teaches us that we are responsible for our own financial decisions and actions, and that we should live within our means and avoid debt. Proverbs 22:7 says, "The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender." This verse reminds us that financial freedom comes from living within our means and avoiding debt.

The good news is that God is not just a distant sovereign who is concerned with our finances, but He is also a loving Father who desires to help us in our financial struggles. When we come to Him in repentance and humility, He is willing to help us and forgive us for our financial sins. As the Bible says in 1 John 1:9, "If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness." So, if you are struggling with feelings of guilt and anxiety about your finances, I encourage you to seek God's help and guidance. Ask Him to forgive you for your financial sins and to help you make wise financial decisions. With God's help, you can break free from the cycle of guilt and anxiety and live a life of financial freedom and peace.