6. Give to the Lord. When going through a financial crisis it is easy to become discouraged and stop tithing. Second Corinthians 9:7-8 says: “Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work” (NIV).
When facing a serious financial challenge, my counsel to you is to give what you can. If you can’t give your full tithe, volunteer your time and services to your church or to a needy cause. Time is worth money. Later, when you are re-established financially, increase your giving. God will bless you when you give what you can with a cheerful heart.
When we were going through hard times, God never ceased to amaze me by always making sure we had the things we needed at the precise time when we needed them. God will always come through when we are obedient to Him. During a financial crisis, remember that things will get better. In time, your situation will improve if you faithfully, consistently apply the steps outlined here.
Deborah McNaughton is a nationally recognized credit expert and financial coach. She’s also the founder of the Financial Victory Institute, a popular online financial newsletter.
Melinda Weinstein also contributed to this article. She is co-founder and managing editor of Financial Victory.
