What does it mean to gain victory over financial persecution?
The Lord works righteousness and justice for all the oppressed. Psalm 103:6
Persecution is any deliberate, systematic, cruel act meant to inflict suffering and fear on a targeted person or people group. Ethnic cleansing, Antisemitism, denying women the right to an education, and differing political views are among the most heinous and common acts of tyranny occurring around the world. To gain victory means we are able to move out from under this heavy burden.
Why financial persecution is worth mentioning.
When we think of mistreatment in our own communities, bullying or racial bias might come to mind quicker than feelings of financial oppression. So what is it about money that could possibly cause us to feel such extreme distress or suffering? This list might help us sort this out.
- Unfair wages between men and women
- Unreasonable increase in rent
- Being overlooked for a promotion
- Financial scams
- The high cost of college education
- Income tax laws
- The high price of medical care
- Working more than one job to pay monthly bills
- Money worries encroach on family time
- Transportation costs
- Retirement money stripped away in a market downturn
- Court costs and/or liens
Money woes often affect emotional and physical health.
When our hard work doesn’t bring home enough money to cover the bills, we aren’t happy-go-lucky people. We become anxious. Unless victory is gained over financial worries, emotional health can turn sour and trigger physical ailments. Physical illness in turn causes us to spend more money. Seeking medical solutions adds to the already heavy burden.
God has wisdom to share with us about overcoming this problem.
God’s instruction for believers is to pray for those who persecute us. If the misery is coming from the bank, pray for the banker; if it’s from the landlord, speak a prayer over him or her. Ask the Lord to bless your employer and to bring success to the company. Speak a prayer of thanks over the medical community or the higher education system.
Don’t be surprised if this idea seems easier said than done. But truthfully, it is the best path to gain victory. Prayer is the only answer that moves us from feeling victimized to realizing God is fully aware of our troubles and is still in control. Once our detrimental feelings are swept out of the way, there’s ample room in our hearts to receive unforeseen blessings from the hand of God.
Practical things we can do to upend financial persecution.
On the common-sense side, some things can be done to upend financial persecution. To begin with, be straightforward and shrewd with your business dealings and creditors.
- Ask for discounts up front.
- Explain the situation and try to negotiate the bill down to affordable payments.
- Nix the pride and apply for local assistance.
- Tighten up on discretionary spending.
- Be thankful for what you already have.
- Embrace a spirit of contentment.
- Take advantage of new opportunities the Lord sends your way.
First, inquire of the Lord. Then take the next step. Never underestimate the power of asking. Approach those who hold your finances captive and respectfully seek financial relief. You’ve nothing to lose and everything to gain.
“But I tell you, love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you.” Matthew 5:44
