When it comes to our finances, we often wonder: Where does God’s provision end and our responsibility begin? Should we simply wait and trust Him—or get to work and provide for ourselves?
The truth is, it’s not either-or. God calls us to both trust Him and participate in His provision. Not because He needs our help, but because He delights in working through us.
Avoiding Two Extremes
You’ve likely heard the phrase, “Let go and let God.” While it sounds spiritual, it can sometimes lead to passivity. On the other end of the spectrum, some of us live as if everything depends on us—hustling, stressing, and striving in our own strength.
Scripture offers a better way: a life of faith that doesn’t ignore work, and a life of work that doesn’t ignore faith. God invites us into a partnership—trusting His sovereignty while faithfully engaging in our responsibilities.
Paul writes in 2 Timothy 2:6, “It is the hard-working farmer who ought to have the first share of the crops.” The farmer can’t make the rain fall or the seeds grow, yet he tills, plants, and harvests. He works diligently while depending entirely on God for the increase.
In the same way, we can’t control the economy or prevent every financial emergency—but we can make wise choices. By living below our means, avoiding debt, and giving generously, we acknowledge God as our Provider while faithfully stewarding what He entrusts to us.
God Provides—We Participate
Psalm 104:14 reminds us, “You cause the grass to grow for the livestock and plants for man to cultivate.” God causes the growth, yet invites us to cultivate it. His provision is not a one-sided transaction—it’s a relationship.
We see this throughout Scripture. When Jesus fed the 5,000, He didn’t create food out of thin air. Instead, He multiplied a boy’s simple lunch. God chooses to involve us, not because He lacks resources, but because He delights in using us to bless others.
God’s Word makes it clear that provision and work go hand in hand.
- Ephesians 4:28 urges, “Let the thief no longer steal, but rather let him labor… so that he may have something to share with anyone in need.”
- 1 Thessalonians 4:11–12 calls us to “work with your hands… so that you may walk properly before outsiders and be dependent on no one.”
Laziness is never encouraged, but neither is frantic self-reliance. Instead, Scripture calls us to wise diligence rooted in God’s faithfulness.
Stewardship means recognizing that everything belongs to God. We are not owners but managers, entrusted with His resources to reflect His character.
And His provision is never just for us. Paul writes in 2 Corinthians 9:10–11, “He who supplies seed to the sower… will supply and multiply your seed for sowing… You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way.”
God enriches us so that generosity might overflow through us—producing thanksgiving to Him.
Living in the Beautiful In-Between
So how do we balance trust in God’s provision with active participation?
- Pray before you plan—inviting God into your financial goals.
- Work with diligence, not fear—resting in His faithfulness, not your performance.
- Give generously—not because God needs your money, but because He invites you to reflect His heart.
- Rest confidently—knowing God is at work even when you sleep.
At the end of the day, God delights in using ordinary people with ordinary means to display His extraordinary grace. He is the Provider, and we have the privilege of being His participants.
Provision, then, is not just about a paycheck—it’s about a partnership. Let’s stop asking whether it’s “all up to us” or “all up to God” and embrace the beautiful in-between: trusting Him, working faithfully, and joining Him in the joy of provision.
On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:
- My wife and I inherited a house from a family member in another state. We’d like to keep it available for friends, family, or church members to use, rather than renting it out. What do you think about that approach?
- My wife and I are in our early 80s. Years ago, we used our Roth IRAs to pay off our home, allowing us to live debt-free in retirement. We use our IRA for charitable giving, but with the rising cost of living, I’m wondering if a reverse mortgage could be a smart tool. What’s your advice?
- If I already have a living will, will my assets still need to go through the probate process?
- I’ve had a long-term care policy since 2018 with $400,000 in coverage, but I was told there’s a six-month waiting period before it pays out. That seems long to me. Should I consider canceling the policy?
Resources Mentioned:
- Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
- Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money
- Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety
- Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool
- Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)
- FaithFi App
Remember, you can call in to ask your questions every workday at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. You can also visit FaithFi.com to connect with our online community and partner with us as we help more people live as faithful stewards of God’s resources.
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