Daily Devotions for Tuesday, February 11, 2025: Faith Over Fear in Times of Struggle

 

The Daily Devotional

Tuesday, February 11, 2025

Faith Over Fear in Times of Struggle

For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice, but rather a spirit of power and of love and of self-discipline. (2 Timothy 1:7)

Introduction

Economic instability, such as the impact of tariff wars, can bring anxiety and uncertainty. Whether it's rising prices on everyday goods or the strain on businesses and livelihoods, such conflicts remind us of how interconnected our economies—and our lives—truly are. In these times, it’s easy to succumb to fear and worry about the future. Yet, as Paul reminded Timothy, God has not given us a spirit of fear but one of power, love, and a sound mind.

Reflection

In the late 1930s, the Great Depression had taken its toll on families and businesses alike. Factories closed, and people feared what the future held. One business owner, a Christian man named Henry, owned a small general store. With tariffs driving up the cost of imported goods, he had to make tough choices about inventory and pricing. One day, a worried customer asked, "Henry, how are you going to keep your business running?"

Henry smiled and replied, "I will do what I can, treat my customers fairly, and trust God with the rest." He continued to provide for his community, adjusting where he could, and trusting that God's provision would not fail. Years later, his store remained while others had folded—not because he had superior financial wisdom but because he placed his faith in God rather than fear.

Similarly, as we navigate financial and economic uncertainty today, our response should not be one of fear but of trust in God's provision and wisdom. Tariff wars may shift markets, but they do not shake the foundation of God's sovereignty.

Application

1. Trust in God's Provision – Just as Henry did, we must place our trust in God's faithfulness, knowing that He will provide for our needs.

2. Act with Wisdom and Love – Instead of reacting with fear, we should seek wise decisions that reflect God's love, whether in business dealings, financial choices, or political discourse.

3. Pray for Leaders – Economic policies affect many lives, and it is our duty to pray for wisdom for those in leadership roles as they make decisions that impact nations.

Conclusion

The challenges of economic instability, including tariff wars, are reminders that our ultimate security is not found in policies or trade agreements but in God’s unshakable kingdom. When we choose faith over fear, we live as a testimony of God's power, love, and wisdom to those around us.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, in times of economic uncertainty, help us to trust in You. Give us wisdom to make sound decisions and a heart full of love rather than fear. Provide for those affected by trade disputes and financial hardships, and grant wisdom to our leaders as they navigate complex issues. May we be a light to those struggling, showing them that our hope is in You alone. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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Devotional by: Kenny Sallee, ThM — Deming, NM, USA

The Bible texts are from the New Revised Standard Version Bible (NRSV)© 1989, 1993, the Division of Christian Education of the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the United States of America. Used by permission. All rights reserved.