Rethinking the Scarcity Mindset

In today’s world, scarcity seems to be everywhere. Not enough money. Not enough time. Not enough security. It’s easy to live like we’re always behind, always grasping, always worried. But is that the full story?

Here at FaithFi, we believe Scripture paints a different picture—one where scarcity isn’t the final word. Instead, through Christ, we’re invited to live with hope, wisdom, and trust in God’s abundant care.

The Root of Scarcity

The fear of “not having enough” isn’t new. Ever since sin entered the world, our hearts have struggled with distrust. In John 10:10, Jesus describes the enemy as a thief who “comes only to steal and kill and destroy.” And that’s what a scarcity mindset does. It steals peace, kills joy, and destroys our trust in God’s provision.

This mindset urges us to hoard instead of share, grasp instead of give, and stress instead of rest. It traps us in anxiety—a form of slavery where our lives are defined by what we lack instead of who God is.

Jesus doesn’t leave us in fear. In the second half of John 10:10, He offers a better way: “I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.”

This abundance isn’t about luxury—it’s about the richness of God’s care. From the very beginning, God created generously. Genesis 1 shows a God who overflows with creativity and provision, filling the skies, seas, and land with life. He didn’t create out of need but out of joy.

As Elisabeth Elliot wisely said, “God has promised to supply all our needs. What we don’t have now, we don’t need now.”

Jesus Offers Something Better

Jesus lived simply, with no home of His own, yet He never operated from scarcity. He lived generously, turning water into wine, feeding multitudes, and offering forgiveness to all. In Matthew 6:25–34, He urges us not to worry, pointing to the birds and lilies as evidence of the Father’s care.

“Seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness,” Jesus tells us, “and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33). This is the antidote to fear: a trust-filled life focused on God’s Kingdom.

So, how do we break free from the scarcity trap? Here are a few biblical steps:

1. Renew Your Mind

Romans 12:2 calls us to be transformed by the renewal of our minds. Ask God to help you see life through the lens of His abundance, not the world’s lack.

2. Practice Gratitude

Thankfulness shifts our focus from what’s missing to what God has already provided. It’s a simple but powerful habit that reorients our hearts toward trust.

3. Embrace Stewardship

We are not owners but stewards. Everything we have is a gift from God. Proverbs 3:9 reminds us to “Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce.”

4. Give in Faith

Don’t give out of fear—give out of faith. 2 Corinthians 9:8 promises that God will provide all we need so that we can abound in every good work.

God Is More Than Enough

Living in God’s abundance doesn’t guarantee an easy life. But it does guarantee we never face our challenges alone, and we never need to be enslaved by fear.

So when the world says, “There’s not enough,” we can respond with confidence: Our God is more than enough. His abundance isn’t just material—it’s spiritual. It’s peace, joy, and confidence that our Father knows exactly what we need.

If you’re struggling with financial fear or anxiety, we invite you to explore our 21-day devotional, Look at the Sparrows. It’s designed to help you shift from fear to faith as you grow in your trust of God’s provision. Order a copy or place a bulk order today at FaithFi.com/Sparrows. Let this journey lead you into deeper peace and stronger trust, because your Father really does care for you.

On Today’s Program, Rob Answers Listener Questions:

• I’ve been looking into Fisher Investments to help manage my portfolio, but their 1.25% advisory fee seems a bit high. With $1.4 million in assets, is that rate competitive, or should I be considering other options?
• I’m on a limited income and have had serious health issues in the past. My husband is retired, and I’m struggling to find affordable health insurance. I’m also worried that my health history might lead to penalties or denial. What are my best options?
• I set up an LLC for a rental property and assumed I could report the income as a pass-through on my personal 1040. But my tax preparer says I now need to make quarterly estimated tax payments. Is that really necessary, and how do I know what to pay?
• I’m 62 and a half and thinking about retiring early this coming January. My current job no longer aligns with my values. I plan to take Social Security at around $1,835/month, which is about $500 less than my current income. My wife is still working and will cover our health insurance. What key retirement planning considerations might I be overlooking?

Resources Mentioned:

• Faithful Steward: FaithFi’s New Quarterly Magazine (Become a FaithFi Partner)
• HealthCare.gov | eHealth | HealthMarkets | HealthSherpa
• IRS.gov | SSA.gov
• Wisdom Over Wealth: 12 Lessons from Ecclesiastes on Money
• Look At The Sparrows: A 21-Day Devotional on Financial Fear and Anxiety
• Rich Toward God: A Study on the Parable of the Rich Fool
• Find a Certified Kingdom Advisor (CKA) or Certified Christian Financial Counselor (CertCFC)
• FaithFi App

Remember, you can call in to ask your questions most days at (800) 525-7000. Faith & Finance is also available on the Moody Radio Network and American Family Radio. Visit our website at FaithFi.com where you can join the FaithFi Community and give as we expand our outreach.