Inflation is something that affects everyone.
Prices go up, the value of money goes down, and people find themselves struggling to afford the things they need.
It can feel overwhelming to watch gas prices rise, grocery bills increase, and the cost of living become harder to manage.
While inflation may seem like a modern problem, it is not new.
The Bible, written thousands of years ago, speaks about times when the economy was unstable, when food was scarce, and when money lost its value.
By looking at what Scripture says, we can find wisdom on how to handle financial struggles, trust in God’s provision, and remain faithful even when times are tough.
Inflation in the Bible
Although the Bible does not use the word inflation, it describes economic hardships similar to what we experience today.
In the Old Testament, there were times of famine when food became so expensive that only the wealthiest people could afford it.
One example is found in 2 Kings 6:25, which says,
There was a great famine in the city; the siege lasted so long that a donkey’s head sold for eighty shekels of silver, and a quarter of a cab of seed pods for five shekels.
During this time, the city of Samaria was under siege, and food became extremely scarce.
Basic necessities that were once affordable became so expensive that only a few could buy them.
This is similar to inflation today, where people see the price of basic goods skyrocket due to economic instability.
In Genesis 41, we see another example of economic trouble when Pharaoh had a dream that predicted seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine.
Joseph, through God’s wisdom, advised Pharaoh to store grain during the good years so that people would have enough to survive during the famine.
As the famine spread, people had to sell everything they owned just to afford food.
Genesis 47:15 says,
When the money of the people of Egypt and Canaan was gone, all Egypt came to Joseph and said, ‘Give us food.
Why should we die before your eyes?
Our money is all gone!’
This situation mirrors times when inflation is so high that people’s savings no longer have the same value, and they struggle to afford what they once could.
The Causes of Inflation in the Bible
The Bible shows that inflation can be caused by different factors, some of which still affect economies today.
One cause is war and conflict.
When a nation is at war, resources become scarce, and prices rise.
The book of Revelation describes a time of great economic distress where food becomes extremely expensive.
Revelation 6:6 says,
Then I heard what sounded like a voice among the four living creatures, saying, ‘Two pounds of wheat for a day’s wages, and six pounds of barley for a day’s wages, and do not damage the oil and the wine!’
This verse describes a time when inflation is so severe that a full day’s wages are barely enough to buy food.
Another cause of inflation in the Bible is poor leadership and economic mismanagement.
In Haggai 1:6, God speaks to the Israelites about how their work does not seem to provide what they need.
You have planted much, but harvested little.
You eat, but never have enough.
You drink, but never have your fill.
You put on clothes, but are not warm.
You earn wages, only to put them in a purse with holes in it.
This verse describes a time when people worked hard but never seemed to have enough because of poor economic conditions.
Inflation can create a similar feeling today—people work long hours, save money, and yet find that their earnings do not stretch as far as they once did.
Trusting God During Inflation
One of the greatest lessons the Bible teaches about financial struggles is that God provides for His people.
Even in times of inflation and economic crisis, God’s care does not change.
Matthew 6:31-33 reminds believers not to worry about their basic needs.
So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’
For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them.
But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.
This does not mean that people should ignore their financial responsibilities, but it does mean that God is aware of their needs and will take care of them.
In the story of Elijah, God provided for him during a time of famine.
In 1 Kings 17:6, it says,
The ravens brought him bread and meat in the morning and bread and meat in the evening, and he drank from the brook.
This shows that God can provide in unexpected ways, even when the economy is unstable.
Wise Financial Principles from the Bible
The Bible provides wisdom on how to handle money, especially in difficult economic times.
One principle is to live within your means.
Proverbs 21:20 says,
The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.
This verse teaches the importance of saving and managing resources wisely.
Just like Joseph advised Pharaoh to store up grain for the years of famine, people today should prepare for times of financial difficulty.
Another biblical principle is avoiding debt.
Proverbs 22:7 warns,
The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender.
During times of inflation, taking on unnecessary debt can make financial struggles worse.
Being cautious with spending and avoiding debt can provide stability when prices rise.
Generosity is also an important biblical principle.
Even in difficult financial times, the Bible encourages people to trust God and be generous.
Proverbs 11:24-25 says,
One person gives freely, yet gains even more; another withholds unduly, but comes to poverty.
A generous person will prosper; whoever refreshes others will be refreshed.
Giving does not mean being reckless with money, but it does mean trusting that God blesses those who help others in need.
Inflation and Contentment
One of the biggest struggles during inflation is the feeling of never having enough.
People worry about the future, stress about money, and wonder if they will be able to afford what they need.
The Bible teaches that contentment is the key to peace in difficult financial times.
Paul, who faced many hardships, wrote in Philippians 4:12-13,
I know what it is to be in need, and I know what it is to have plenty.
I have learned the secret of being content in any and every situation, whether well fed or hungry, whether living in plenty or in want.
I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
This verse does not mean that financial struggles are easy, but it does show that true peace does not come from money—it comes from trusting God.
First Timothy 6:6-8 also teaches,
But godliness with contentment is great gain.
For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it.
But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that.
While inflation can make life more difficult, it does not have to steal a person’s joy or faith.
When people focus on what they have instead of what they lack, they can find peace even in uncertain times.
Final Thoughts
Inflation is a real challenge, but the Bible provides guidance on how to navigate it with wisdom and faith.
Scripture shows that economic struggles have existed throughout history, and yet, God has always provided for His people.
While inflation can cause stress and uncertainty, believers are reminded that their security is not found in money, but in God.
By practicing wise financial habits, trusting in God’s provision, and learning to be content, people can find peace even in difficult economic times.
No matter how high prices rise or how uncertain the future seems, God’s promises remain the same.
He is faithful, He provides, and He will take care of those who trust in Him.