If you’re a twentysomething trying to figure out adulthood, the economy probably feels like a twisted initiation ritual. The stock market is rattled, recession warnings are everywhere and a new global trade war is making it clear: financial stability isn’t coming anytime soon.
This moment feels familiar to older generations. But for many of us, it’s the first time we’ve been conscious adults during a serious economic downturn. So the question lingers: Should we be freaking out right now?
According to Art Rainer, a financial expert, author and founder of Christian Money Solutions, the answer is no—but also, maybe, sort of. Just not in the way you think.
“The most common question I get from young adults right now is, ‘Should I get out of the market?’” Rainer said. “But really, they’re asking about timing—when to jump in, when to jump out. And that’s where emotions start taking the wheel.”
And that, he says, is where things go wrong.
Don’t Let Fear Drive the Car
It’s not irrational to feel some panic when your bank app looks more like a countdown timer. But Rainer warns that fear and greed are two terrible investment advisors—and they’ve both got loud voices right now.
“Any time emotions start dictating your financial decisions, the outcome usually isn’t good—whether it’s with investing, marriage or parenting,” Rainer said. “Ask yourself: Is this decision based on logic or on fear?”
That question matters more than ever. A lot of us don’t have the luxury of playing with excess cash. We’re budgeting student loan payments, rent hikes and side hustle money all in the same spreadsheet. But Rainer says that’s exactly why we need a plan—not a reaction.
“If you’re investing for retirement 30 years from now, what happens this week, this month, even this year, isn’t the whole story,” he said. “Zoom out. Look at how the market has performed over decades. This isn’t the first downturn and it won’t be the last.”
And if you’re not investing yet? That’s OK. There’s more to financial health than your 401(k). Budgeting wisely, spending intentionally and planning for future seasons of scarcity—those are biblical principles too.
“The Bible talks about saving as a wise thing to do,” Rainer said, pointing to Proverbs and its references to the ant who stores up during abundance. “We’re supposed to prepare in seasons of plenty for the seasons when things aren’t so good.”
What About Giving?
Here’s where things get even more uncomfortable. When times get tight, the first thing many of us cut isn’t streaming services—it’s generosity. Rainer says that’s a mistake, not just financially but spiritually.
“Generosity is supposed to be our priority,” he said. “You’re not financially healthy from a biblical standpoint if you’re not giving.”
Yes, even when it feels impossible.
“There’s a scarcity mindset that creeps in, especially when money is tight,” Rainer said. “But we’re not owners of our resources. God is. We’re managers. And when we give, we’re trusting Him to provide—not just for us but through us.”
That kind of thinking isn’t easy, especially when you’re staring down a paycheck that barely covers gas and groceries. But Rainer insists it’s worth fighting for.
“Lean into God’s design for money. It always starts with generosity.”
You Don’t Have to Figure This Out Alone
Here’s some good news: you’re not the only one trying to make sense of this chaos. And you don’t have to do it solo.
“There are certified Christian financial counselors who can help—people who can walk with you, explain things, help you feel less overwhelmed,” Rainer said. “Even just finding a community of others who want to pursue financial health for the sake of God’s kingdom can make a huge difference.”
He recommends groups like the More Than Money Facebook community where people share questions, advice and encouragement through a biblical lens.
You’re not going to outsmart the economy. But you can outlast the panic. Build your habits now, lean into biblical wisdom and remember: faith is the real flex when everything else feels unstable.
