“Remember, students: a penny saved is a penny earned.”

My high school teacher’s voice rattled in my brain as I stood in the check-out line. It was my first year in college, and I hadn’t quite yet learned how to save. So yet again, I had overestimated how much money I had to tide me over until the next paltry paycheck from my on-campus job. I swiped my debit card with eyes squinted, hoping that my card wouldn’t be declined.

I wish I could say that my financial worries dissolved after that year, or after I got a full-time job and learned how to balance a budget. But, sometimes, this same kind of financial dread still follows me. Sometimes, I do the best financial planning possible and still fall flat.

Can you identify with the feeling? Are you sensing the weight of financial worries today?

Maybe you’re dealing with an unexpected car repair. Perhaps you’re facing a mound of medical bills from a recent health emergency. Or maybe you’re overwhelmed by the persistent struggle of living paycheck-to-paycheck.

When money troubles threaten to ruin your joy, you can fight back by searching for peace and comfort in God’s Word. These five verses will get you started:

1. Matthew 11:28-30 (GNTD)

Come to me, all of you who are tired from carrying heavy loads, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke and put it on you, and learn from me, because I am gentle and humble in spirit; and you will find rest. For the yoke I will give you is easy, and the load I will put on you is light.

2. Psalm 55:22 (GNTD)

Leave your troubles with the LORD,
  and he will defend you;
  he never lets honest people be defeated.

3. 1 Peter 5:7 (GNTD)

Leave all your worries with him, because he cares for you.

4. Psalm 34:17-18 (GNTD)

The righteous call to the LORD, and he listens;
   he rescues them from all their troubles.
The LORD is near to those who are discouraged;
  he saves those who have lost all hope.

5. John 14:27 (GNTD)

Peace is what I leave with you; it is my own peace that I give you. I do not give it as the world does. Do not be worried and upset; do not be afraid.