How does government spending shape everyday life and what does it means for the future?
PRAY FIRST for our leaders in Congress and the White House to have godly wisdom and discernment as they make budgetary decisions that affect millions.
First of all, then, I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. 1 Timothy 2:1–2
The past several weeks have fueled conversations regarding federal spending and where American tax dollars go, as deep cuts are being made on government expenses. But what does federal spending entail? How many programs does it encompass? And how does it impact you and me? Federal spending is the financial lifeblood of the U.S. government—funding essential services, infrastructure, national defense, and social programs. It directly influences the lives of citizens, from healthcare access to road maintenance, and reflects the nation’s priorities. The roots of federal spending trace back to the early days of the Republic, but it wasn’t until the 20th century—during crises like the Great Depression and World War II—that government expenses grew substantially to address nationwide challenges.
Today, the federal budget is a colossal operation involving multiple branches of government. Congress holds the “power of the purse,” crafting, debating, and passing budget legislation, while the President signs or vetoes spending bills. Various federal agencies then distribute funds according to congressional mandates, with oversight mechanisms like audits and reporting requirements designed to ensure money reaches its intended destinations.
Allocation of Federal Funds
Federal spending is distributed across numerous sectors, each serving a critical role in sustaining the nation. The largest recipients include the Department of Defense (DoD), Social Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. These programs provide vital services, from national security to healthcare for the elderly and low-income individuals. Education, infrastructure, and scientific research also receive significant funding, promoting long-term societal growth and innovation.
However, shifts in spending can have ripple effects. When federal funds are reduced, state and local governments often feel the strain, particularly in regions reliant on federal aid for public schools, transportation, or social services. Programs like SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) and housing assistance serve as lifelines for vulnerable populations, and budget cuts to these areas can intensify poverty and widen inequality.
Special interest groups and lobbyists further influence federal spending—advocating for increased funding for industries or causes. While advocacy can spotlight legitimate needs, it can also create tension between competing priorities, complicating the budgeting process.
Federal spending is a double-edged sword. On one hand, increased spending can stimulate economic growth, create jobs, and provide immediate relief during recessions. For example, the COVID-19 stimulus packages were designed to help stabilize families and businesses during a period of unprecedented economic disruption. On the contrary, unchecked spending contributes to rising deficits and national debt, raising concerns about long-term fiscal sustainability.
Deficit spending—when expenses exceed revenue—adds to the national debt, which the U.S. government finances through borrowing. While borrowing allows the government to fund essential services during crises, excessive debt can strain future budgets, as interest payments consume a larger share of federal resources. Historically, efforts to curb spending have included measures like budget caps and sequestration, though their effectiveness remains a topic of debate.
In an effort to more aggressively balance federal spending with the federal budget, President Donald Trump established the Department of Government Efficiency as a way to investigate federal agencies and reduce any wasteful expenditures.
The Consequences of Government Inaction
If Congress and the President fail to pass a budget, the government can face partial or complete shutdowns. During a shutdown, many federal programs pause, federal employees may go unpaid, and services like national parks and social security processing slow or halt. Prolonged shutdowns create uncertainty, disrupt livelihoods, and can erode public trust in government institutions.
Legal safeguards, such as mandatory spending for Social Security and Medicare, protect some programs from immediate cuts, but even these safety nets face future funding challenges as demographic shifts increase demand. Voter engagement and public opinion also play pivotal roles in shaping spending priorities, as elected officials respond to constituent concerns and advocacy efforts.
Why It Matters and How We Can Respond
Federal spending is a powerful tool that shapes nearly every aspect of American life. While budget decisions are complex and often contentious, they present an opportunity to care for the nation’s citizens, steward resources wisely, and promote human flourishing. This makes federal spending not merely a policy issue but a moral one. How a nation allocates its resources reflects its values and priorities. We are called to care for the vulnerable and seek the common good. Proverbs 14:31 reminds us, “Whoever oppresses a poor man insults his Maker, but he who is generous to the needy honors him.” Understanding federal spending helps us promote policies that align with biblical principles of compassion, stewardship, and care for those in need. When we engage in conversations about budgets and government programs, we should approach the discussion with grace and compassion, recognizing the complexity of balancing fiscal responsibility with human flourishing. Whether supporting better veteran care, supporting social programs, or praying for wise leadership, we have a unique opportunity to reflect Christ’s love in the public sphere.
When we engage in conversations about budgets and government programs, we should approach the discussion with grace and compassion, recognizing the complexity of balancing fiscal responsibility with human flourishing. Whether supporting better veteran care, supporting social programs, or praying for wise leadership, we have a unique opportunity to reflect Christ’s love in the public sphere.
HOW THEN SHOULD WE PRAY:
— Pray for our nation to steward its resources with compassion. Whoever has two tunics is to share with him who has none, and whoever has food is to do likewise. Luke 3:11
— Pray for God to comfort those whose lives are shaped by federal funding decisions, to provide for those relying on public services, and strengthen communities facing financial hardship. For he delivers the needy when he calls, the poor and him who has no helper. He has pity on the weak and the needy, and saves the lives of the needy. Psalm 72:12–13
CONSIDER THESE ITEMS FOR PRAYER:
- Pray for our nation’s leaders to steward public resources with wisdom and humility.
- Pray for God to soften the hearts of those in power so they prioritize policies that genuinely reflect compassion and care for those in need.
- Pray unity among leaders with differing views to be able to seek common ground and work together for the good of all citizens, rather than being divided by politics.
Sources: Congressional Budget Office, United States Department of the Treasury, Federal News Network, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, House Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, Department of Education, White House
