On February 1, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump announced sweeping new tariffs on imports from Canada, Mexico, and China. These tariffs—25% on Canadian and Mexican goods and 10% on Chinese imports—have already set off a wave of concern about rising prices, supply chain disruptions, and potential retaliation from America’s largest trading partners.

The official reasons for these tariffs range from protecting American jobs to addressing illegal immigration and trade imbalances. However, as Bible-believing Christians, we recognize that these economic tensions are not just political maneuvers—they are signs of the times.

A World Moving Toward Conflict

Bible prophecy warns that in the last days, nations will be at conflict with one another (Matthew 24:7). This includes conflict among nations that descended from the tribes of Israel such as the United States and Canada (Isaiah 9:21).  What we are witnessing now is an increase in economic warfare—where countries use trade and tariffs as weapons instead of military force.

These new tariffs are not just about numbers on a trade balance sheet. They will affect everyday people—not just in America, but across the world.

• Canada, Mexico, and China are some of America’s biggest trading partners. If they retaliate with their own tariffs, it could make American exports more expensive, hurting U.S. industries.
• The cost of goods will rise. The U.S. relies on these three countries for cars, oil, electronics, food, and raw materials. Higher tariffs will increase prices for consumers and businesses alike.
• The stock market may become volatile, leading to economic uncertainty and potential job losses.

This is exactly what Bible prophecy describes—a world where nations struggle economically, and conflict escalates. Revelation 6:5-6 describes a time when basic necessities become extremely expensive, saying:

“A quart of wheat for a denarius, and three quarts of barley for a denarius, and do not harm the oil and the wine.”

This verse points to economic hardships, inflation, and scarcity—things we are beginning to experience today.

How Should We Respond?

If we know these things must come to pass, what should we do? How can we prepare, not just physically but spiritually?

1. Be Thankful for What We Have

We often take stable prices and economic security for granted. But as food, fuel, and everyday goods become more expensive, we should be reminded that every blessing we have comes from God.

• 1 Thessalonians 5:18 says, “In everything give thanks; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.”
• Instead of complaining about higher costs, let us cultivate a spirit of gratitude for the provisions we still enjoy.

2. Rely on God for Our Needs

The Bible reminds us that our true security is in God—not in the economy, governments, or world leaders.

• Philippians 4:19 assures us: “And my God shall supply all your needs according to His riches in glory by Christ Jesus.”
• No matter how expensive things become, God promises to care for His people.

This does not mean we should be careless with our resources, but it does mean we should not live in fear and anxiety over economic hardships.

3. Live Within Our Means

As costs rise, wise financial stewardship is more important than ever.

• Proverbs 22:7 warns us: “The rich rules over the poor, and the borrower is servant to the lender.”
• Now is the time to cut unnecessary expenses, avoid debt, and prioritize needs over wants.
• The principle of living simply and avoiding materialism will help us navigate these economic storms.

4. Be More Productive in Our Work

When economies face downturns, those who are diligent, skilled, and hardworking will fare better. The Bible encourages us to be industrious and proactive:

• Proverbs 10:4 says, “He who has a slack hand becomes poor, but the hand of the diligent makes rich.”
• Instead of worrying about economic shifts, we should focus on increasing our skills, working hard, and being resourceful.

5. Help Those in Need

Economic crises hit the most vulnerable people the hardest. As Christians, we have a duty to support those in need.

• Proverbs 19:17 says, “He who has pity on the poor lends to the Lord, and He will pay back what he has given.”
• If we are in a position to help others—whether by donating, offering jobs, or sharing resources—we should do so with a generous heart.

Preparing for the Future

The world is shifting into a period of great economic uncertainty. The escalation of trade wars and rising costs of living are just the beginning of greater global upheavals that Bible prophecy has foretold.

But as followers of Christ, we do not need to fear. Instead, we must:

• Be thankful for what we have
• Trust God for our needs
• Live wisely and within our means
• Work hard and remain diligent
• Help those in need

Though the world is moving toward economic crisis and division among nations, we look forward to the Kingdom of God, where there will be true prosperity, fairness, and peace for all. Until then, let us stay faithful, be wise stewards, and continue to trust in God’s provision.