Brent Pollard
Many individuals frequently misinterpret the writings of the Apostle Paul, pulling them from their intended context. Peter observed this concern regarding numerous writings of Paul (see 2 Peter 3.14-16). Philippians 4:13 states, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me” (NASB95). Paul wasn’t suggesting that believers can attain every wish through Christ’s strength; instead, he pointed out that they can withstand any financial circumstance, whether in plenty or want. Remembering this when consuming news or scrolling through social media chatter regarding our economy’s current and potentially future state is crucial.
A Gallup poll published on April 20, 2025, revealed that many respondents expressed worries about the potential downturn of their financial situations. A significant 45% of respondents to a survey by the Pew Research Center on April 23, 2025, expressed concern about a potential economic decline. The responses indicate that participants’ primary worry centers on the cost of products. A recent poll by CNBC and SurveyMonkey, published on April 10, 2025, showed that 73% of respondents claimed to face financial stress. Notably, the latter part of the CNBC/SurveyMonkey poll reveals that 66% of respondents attributed their financial stress to Donald Trump’s tariffs.
I am not writing this to defend any man or political party. I do this because Jesus forbade us from succumbing to worry, particularly regarding our needs for food and clothing (see Matthew 6:25–34). Paul conveyed to Timothy that anyone who possesses these two gifts promised by Jesus to those who prioritize God’s kingdom and righteousness should find contentment (1 Timothy 6.8). In light of that foundational principle, I aim to alleviate your concerns by delving into the historical context of this recent financial specter: the tariff.
When Paul wrote to the brethren of Philippi, the Romans had already implemented tariffs to boost revenue, oversee and regulate the movement of goods across their lands, and unify various economies within the empire, all while preserving Roman economic dominance. Hence, the Apostle had a good idea of how tariffs impacted one’s finances. Yet, as we’ve already observed, he preached contentment regardless of one’s financial circumstances. Paul could make tents if his brethren weren’t financially providing for him (see Acts 18.3). Clearly, the Roman tariffs enforced by the notorious Nero were not a source of sleepless nights for Paul.
However, tariffs have existed for an even longer time. Clay tablets from ancient Sumerian cities, dating back to approximately 2,500 BC, document the duties imposed on goods that traversed their lands. The adversaries of the post-exilic Jews sought to undermine the Temple’s reconstruction by prompting the Persian king to scrutinize the Jews. Ezra 4:20 reveals a critical insight regarding the Hebrews: “…mighty kings have ruled over Jerusalem, governing all the provinces beyond the River, and that tribute, custom and toll were paid to them” (NASB95). In other words, kings like David used tariffs.
Adam Smith, often regarded as the father of capitalism, clearly opposed tariffs under most circumstances. Conservative thinkers such as Thomas Sowell and Milton Friedman share Smith’s perspective. Libertarian Republican Rand Paul contends that tariffs essentially function as a tax burden on the American citizen. As a result, individuals across the political spectrum agree that Donald Trump’s tariffs will have negative financial repercussions for us. Undeniably, tariffs lead to a rise in the cost of goods. This increase will hit hard in a nation like ours, which has become reliant on inexpensive products frequently produced by forced labor overseas. Take, for instance, the Apple iPhone. Tim Cook mentioned that an iPhone made in America would come with an additional cost of $300. Analyst Dan Ives has boldly asserted that a U.S.-manufactured iPhone could carry a staggering price tag of $3,500! How could one not worry when hearing these dire predictions?
Jesus reminded us, “So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own” (Matthew 6.34 NASB95). In simpler terms, avoid creating unnecessary problems for yourself since every day brings challenges. Focus on the task at hand and tackle what’s right in front of you. In the prayer model, Jesus instructed us to request solely for “our daily bread.” Luke articulates it as: “Give us each day our daily bread” (Luke 11.3 NASB95). The outcome remains uncertain because of one President’s choice to impose reciprocal tariffs. (Among those tariffs Trump implemented, only those against China are punitive.)
An age-old adage in the news industry goes, “If it bleeds, it leads.” What is the significance of this? This phrase highlights how the media often places sensational, violent, or shocking news stories at the forefront of broadcasts or on the front pages. It’s a harsh reality that media outlets tend to spotlight stories filled with conflict, tragedy, or violence, as these are the ones that capture attention and boost viewership or readership. “Bleeding” is a metaphor for any significant or negative occurrence, while “leading” indicates that these narratives receive prominent visibility. The apprehension surrounding Trump’s tariffs fits into this category, given that Donald Trump is incredibly divisive.
What impact will all of this have on us? Are we on the brink of another Great Depression, or could these tariffs act as a national dose of Ipecac, cleansing us of our reliance on foreign-made goods and encouraging industries that left the United States to return? Those issues do not pertain to the realm of devotional contemplation. Our emphasis is “That which has been is that which will be, And that which has been done is that which will be done. So there is nothing new under the sun” (Ecclesiastes 1.9 NASB95). We are not the first people on planet Earth to experience monetary disturbances. And, if God allows time to continue, we will not be the last. Paul reminded Timothy that we entered this world with nothing and will leave it with nothing (1 Timothy 6.7). We must trust God’s ability to feed and clothe us providentially (see again Matthew 6.25-34).
In times of economic uncertainty, it is essential to remember that God’s provision has never faltered. The challenges we face today are not unique in the grand scheme of history. As those before us have navigated financial struggles, we can trust God’s guidance and providence for our needs. Let us find comfort in knowing there is nothing new under the sun and place our faith in His eternal care for us.
Works Cited
Dhue, Stephanie, and Sharon Epperson. “Majority of Americans Are Financially Stressed from Tariff Turmoil, CNBC Survey Finds.” CNBC, 10 Apr. 2025, www.cnbc.com/2025/04/10/majority-of-americans-are-financially-stressed-from-tariff-turmoil-cnbc-survey.html.
Saad, Lydia. “Americans’ Economic, Financial Expectations Sink in April.” Gallup, 10 Apr. 2025, news.gallup.com/poll/659630/americans-economic-financial-expectations-sink-april.aspx.
Pew Research Center. “Economic Ratings and Concerns 2025.” Pew Research Center, 23 Apr. 2025, www.pewresearch.org/politics/2025/04/23/economic-ratings-and-concerns-2025/.
The Almanac. “Ancient Taxes.” Vol. 48, no. 28, 2 Apr. 2002, almanac.upenn.edu/archive/v48/n28/AncientTaxes.html.
Daley, Beth. “Ancient Rome Used High Tariffs to Raise Money Too, and Created Other Economic Problems Along the Way.” The Conversation, 3 Apr. 2025, theconversation.com/ancient-rome-used-high-tariffs-to-raise-money-too-and-created-other-economic-problems-along-the-way-253752.
Leswing, Kif. “Here’s How Much a Made-in-the-USA iPhone Would Cost.” CNBC, 11 Apr. 2025, www.cnbc.com/2025/04/11/heres-how-much-a-made-in-the-usa-iphone-would-cost.html.
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