I feel like I’m trying to keep my hat on in the middle of a gale storm! That’s what living in today’s world feels like, right? We’re experiencing some turbulent economic weather. Prices are rising, the stock market resembles a game of musical chairs, and each news cycle seems like a new season of a particularly dramatic TV show. But who or what is the common denominator?
Let's talk about the elephant in the room—President Donald J. Trump.
Love him or hate him (for the record, I hate no one), it's undeniable that Donald Trump's new policies are creating significant disruptions in our economy. The mass government layoffs, tariffs, and negotiations he has initiated affect our daily lives. Additionally, Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO overseeing the newly created temporary Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has been tasked with eliminating waste, fraud, and abuse in government programs. As a result, many feel the impact of substantial cuts to the federal budget and services.
We are truly living in challenging times.
But here's the truth:
No political storm can shake the solid ground of genuine faith. Times like these remind me of Matthew 8:24-26, where Jesus and His disciples faced a fierce storm:
"Suddenly a furious storm came up on the lake, so that the waves swept over the boat. But Jesus was sleeping. The disciples went and woke him, saying, 'Lord, save us! We're going to drown!' He replied, 'You of little faith, why are you so afraid?' Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm."
We're the disciples, panicking and anxiously watching waves crash. But notice Jesus' response: calm and authority. He shows us our anxiety doesn't have to own us. God is greater than our biggest fears.
Maybe you're worrying about how you'll pay the rent or mortgage next month or afford groceries this week. Maybe layoffs in your industry leave you uneasy. You're not alone. Anxiety during economic turmoil is as common as pollen in spring, it's everywhere and sneaks up on us suddenly.
Here's how I've learned to cope:
First, pause and remember who's in your boat. Christ promises never to leave nor forsake us (Hebrews 13:5). When fear creeps in, I lean into this promise, visualizing Jesus in the boat with me, calm amidst chaos. I also started therapy again, to help manage my anxiety and stress.
Second, replace worry with prayer. Philippians 4:6 reminds us: "Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God."
When anxiety threatens, take a moment, wherever you are—whether in your kitchen, car, or cubicle—and present your fears to God. Like planting seeds in fertile soil, prayer nourishes peace and replaces anxiety with gratitude.
Also, remember to connect with community. You're not meant to carry burdens alone. Share your worries with trusted friends or your church community. We often underestimate how healing simply speaking our fears aloud can be. It's like opening windows in a stuffy room—letting fresh air circulate, refreshing our spirits.
Lastly, limit your exposure to distressing news. Yes, stay informed, but don't drown in negativity; balance information with inspiration. Read uplifting stories, meditate on comforting scriptures, or enjoy nature's simplicity—a tangible reminder of God's provision.
Friends, it's okay to acknowledge anxiety, but let's not give it power. Our economy and politics ebb and flow like tides, but faith in Christ is our steady anchor.
So, breathe deeply, pray confidently, and sail forward knowing Who controls the storms.
Are you feeling overwhelmed? Comment below! Let's encourage each other and get through these storms together.
Janette Owens is the founder of Be Inspired For Real and owner of Be Inspired For Real LLC. She loves everything inspirational and has spent most of her life inspiring and motivating others through humor, prose, exhortation, and God's grace. Janette is the author of A Swan Song, an intimate collection of poems and short stories. Janette lives just outside of Memphis, Tennessee.
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