The Silent Thief: Understanding Inflation and its Effects on Christians

Everything is getting more expensive. Let's understand why. Inflation has been a hot topic in recent times, with many people feeling the effects of rising prices and diminishing purchasing power. As Christians, it is important to understand the concept of inflation and how it affects us on a daily basis.

Inflation can be defined as a general increase in prices and a decrease in the purchasing value of money. This means that the amount of goods and services that can be purchased with a certain amount of money decreases over time. It is a silent thief that robs us of our hard-earned money and can have devastating effects on the most vulnerable in society. (Price increases at the grocery store doesn't mean the cost is going up because of the grocery store owners, , it means the value of the money is going down.)

The Bible has much to say about the issue of inflation. In Proverbs 13:11, it states, "Wealth gotten by vanity shall be diminished: but he that gathereth by labour shall increase." This verse highlights the importance of hard work and earning a living through honest means. However, inflation can make it difficult for individuals to increase their wealth and savings. This is because the value of their money is constantly decreasing, making it harder to save for the future or invest in profitable ventures.

Furthermore, James 5:1-3 describes the warning against hoarding wealth and speaks to the devastation caused by inflation. It states, "Go to now, ye rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon you. Your riches are corrupted, and your garments are motheaten. Your gold and silver is cankered; and the rust of them shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire." This passage emphasizes the temporary nature of wealth and how it can easily lose its value due to inflation. It also serves as a reminder that our trust should not be in earthly riches but in God, who is the only true and lasting source of wealth.

As Christians, we are called to be good stewards of our resources and to help those in need. Inflation can make it difficult for us to fulfill this calling, as it affects the cost of goods and services, making it harder for us to give generously. The apostle Paul urges us in 2 Corinthians 9:7, "Each of you should give what you have decided in your heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." However, inflation can make it challenging for individuals to give as much as they desire or are able to, resulting in a hindrance to their generosity.

So what can Christians do to combat inflation and its effects? Firstly, we must be wise and disciplined in managing our finances. This includes budgeting and saving for the future, as well as avoiding unnecessary expenses. We should also aim to live within our means and avoid debt, as inflation can make it difficult to repay loans with the decreasing value of money.

Moreover, it is important to support policies and practices that promote economic stability and control inflation. Christians can use their voices to advocate for responsible economic policies that benefit everyone, especially the most vulnerable. Proverbs 31:9 states, "Open thy mouth, judge righteously, and plead the cause of the poor and needy." This verse highlights the responsibility of Christians to speak up for those who are affected by inflation the most, including the poor, the elderly, and those on fixed incomes.

Most importantly, Christians must put their trust in God, who has promised to provide for our needs. In Philippians 4:19, it says, "But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus." This promise encourages us to have faith and trust in God's provision, even in times of inflation. As we rely on Him, we can find peace and security in knowing that our needs are taken care of.

In conclusion, inflation is indeed a silent thief that can have significant impacts on individuals and society. As Christians, we must be aware of its effects and take steps to combat it in our personal lives and in society. By being wise with our finances, advocating for responsible economic policies, and trusting in God's provision, we can combat the effects of inflation and fulfill our calling to be good stewards and generous givers.

Next time you go to the grocery store remember that paper currency is crashing in purchasing power. That's the result of inflation.  It's time to get out of paper money and into something outside the money printers hands. Time to learn about property, gold, silver, and Bitcoin. Learn how to fight back through financial education.

Your partner,
(c) Apostle Jonas Clark
www.jonasclark.com