The Lord Gave and the Lord Has Taken Away

The Lord Gave and the Lord Has Taken Away: Trusting God Through Financial Storms

Life can be unpredictable. One moment, we’re standing on the mountaintop of financial success. The next, we’re navigating valleys of uncertainty. The keyphrase, The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away, comes straight from Job 1:21. It reminds us that everything we have is ultimately from God, and He remains sovereign even when things are lost.

Understanding the Biblical Foundation

Job, a wealthy and righteous man, lost everything—his children, his wealth, and his health. Still, he said, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I shall depart. The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord.” His unwavering faith under unimaginable pain remains a powerful testimony of trust.

This scripture teaches us to hold possessions loosely. Our true security isn’t in money but in God’s promises.

God’s Promises Remain Unshaken

Throughout Scripture, God promises to be with us in every season. Isaiah 41:10 declares, “Fear not, for I am with you; be not dismayed, for I am your God.” Financial instability does not mean God’s presence has vanished. Instead, it often draws us closer to Him.

In Philippians 4:19, Paul assures, “And my God will supply every need of yours according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” Our needs—not our wants—are God’s concern. Trusting this promise transforms how we navigate financial challenges.

Christian Books on Financial Stewardship and Faith

Books such as The Treasure Principle by Randy Alcorn and Money, Possessions and Eternity offer wisdom grounded in Scripture. Alcorn reminds readers that we are stewards, not owners. Larry Burkett, a Christian financial expert, emphasized aligning financial goals with biblical values.

Dave Ramsey, though known more for practical finance, builds his teachings on biblical principles. His Total Money Makeover encourages debt-free living, disciplined budgeting, and generous giving. These authors collectively echo the lesson of Job: trust God and remain faithful regardless of your financial status.

Learning to Be in Charge of Your Finances

While faith is essential, God also calls us to act with wisdom. Proverbs 21:5 says, “The plans of the diligent lead to profit.” Being in charge of your finances means knowing where your money goes, saving consistently, and avoiding unnecessary debt.

Create a budget. Track spending. Build an emergency fund. These are acts of stewardship, not fear. They demonstrate trust in God’s provision by honoring what He provides.

Testimonies of People Who Faced Financial Hardship

Many believers have walked through financial fires and found God faithful.

1. Lisa’s Story – After losing her job during the 2008 crisis, Lisa turned to prayer and budgeting. God provided through unexpected freelance work and the kindness of others.
2. Jason and Maria’s Testimony – With three kids and mounting debt, they enrolled in a financial peace course. They sacrificed vacations, downsized their home, and tithed faithfully. Today, they are debt-free and mentor other couples.
3. Mark’s Journey – A small business owner, Mark lost his store to a fire. Insurance delays almost bankrupted him. But community support and his church’s help allowed him to reopen. “God restored what I thought was lost forever,” he said.

What Bible Scholars Say About Money

Bible scholars often emphasize that money itself is not evil. It is the love of money that leads to ruin (1 Timothy 6:10). Jesus spoke more about money than almost any other topic, warning against hoarding (Luke 12:15-21) and encouraging generosity (Luke 6:38).

Dr. Craig Blomberg, a New Testament scholar, argues that Christians are called to a lifestyle of simplicity and generosity. Similarly, John Piper teaches that earthly riches should point us to eternal treasures.

What Financial Analysts Say

From a secular viewpoint, financial analysts stress diversification, risk management, and financial literacy. However, many now acknowledge the role of mindset and faith in financial well-being.

Economist and author Arthur Brooks promotes a faith-based approach to economics. He claims people who see money as a tool—not an idol—experience more peace.

What Psychologists Say About Financial Struggles

Psychologists recognize the emotional toll financial hardship brings. Anxiety, depression, and marital conflict often follow financial crises. However, those who practice gratitude, faith, and community engagement show higher resilience.

Dr. Brené Brown emphasizes vulnerability and connection. Sharing your struggles and leaning on trusted friends and faith communities reduces shame and isolation.

Practical Steps for Trusting God and Managing Finances

1. Start with Prayer – Ask God for wisdom (James 1:5).
2. Budget Faithfully – Reflect your priorities in your spending.
3. Avoid Debt – Proverbs 22:7 warns that the borrower is slave to the lender.
4. Save Wisely – Proverbs 13:11 praises steady saving.
5. Give Generously – Giving breaks greed’s grip and honors God.

Let God Guide Your Financial Decisions

Don’t make financial decisions out of fear. Seek God’s will through Scripture and counsel. The Holy Spirit provides peace even in tough choices.

Proverbs 3:5-6 urges, “Trust in the Lord with all your heart…He will make your paths straight.”

Why Trusting God Always Wins

The story of Job did not end in loss. God restored him. That doesn’t mean every story ends with material abundance. But God promises something greater—His presence, peace, and eternal reward.

Even when “the Lord has taken away,” our faith assures us that He still holds us. We are not abandoned. We are refined.

Conclusion: Hold On to Hope

Financial hardship is real, but so is God’s provision. As you face challenges, remember Job’s words. Let The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away be more than a phrase. Let it become your anchor.

Take control of your finances. Put God first. Learn from others’ stories. Trust in God’s promises. He is faithful. He is near. Always.