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Hi,
I learned a new phrase this week: oil anxiety.
I’ve always had the habit of watching fuel prices – trying to win that little game of timing the top‑up for when the price is lowest. But lately, I’ve been watching more regularly than before – prices jump up, and up, then teasingly dip a little, and I wonder: Is now the time? Should I wait? It might go up and cost me more – or it might go down and I will have paid too much… should I buy an EV? It sounds like a clear case of oil anxiety to me.
The Bible gives clear instruction about anxiety: Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to God; and the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus (Phil 4:6-7).
So, taking that on board, here’s a new little game I’ve decided to play: every time I see a petrol or diesel price board, I am choosing to use it as an opportunity to pivot my thoughts to stories in the Bible that mention oil, and their meaning – like how the parable of the ten virgins challenges me to stay alert for Jesus’ return (Matthew 25). Or the story of Abraham, who lived as a nomad in uncertain times, yet experienced God’s steady provision and blessing – oil included – as he trusted God’s promise rather than giving way to fear (Genesis 12-13).
Worldly thinking naturally takes you to a narrative about scarcity; Biblical thinking supernaturally takes you to a place of provision and trust, knowing God can be trusted no matter what’s happening.
ANZAC Day this Saturday reminds us that this is not a new tension. In the great wars, many Australian soldiers faced unimaginable uncertainty – far from home, with no guarantees of tomorrow. In those times, many have turned to the Scriptures for perspective and hope. Pocket New Testaments were widely issued, and for countless ANZACs, God’s Word became a place of steadiness when nothing else was secure.
The type of volatility we face today is different to a battlefield, but our natural reaction to uncertainty is often the same. But I love the fact we can help people lift their eyes from the circumstance around them and to refocus their trust on God. Through Vision, we are showing the Way to Jesus, together – bringing reminders that we can cast our cares on Him, because He cares for us. Your support of Vision makes that possible for many thousands, every day.
We are about to enter an important time, across the month of May.
It’s called Visionathon. It will be a time of celebrating God at work and gathering the funds needed to keep the light burning bright across Australia and beyond. In preparation, I’d love for you to take a few minutes to watch the video below to see how God has used ordinary believers to achieve extraordinary things throughout Vision’s 38 year history – it is very encouraging.
We continue to believe for big things as we keep working together by faith, and as more people receive the good news of God daily through Vision, like Carmelo:
“G’day Vision folks. XLNT 100% Christian content across all segments. [I listen via] DAB+ in my van, all day, every day. No ambiguity where you stand 🙏. I’m new to Vision Radio, and enjoying it” – Carmello from Strathfield NSW (Sydney)
In 2026, Australia needs a clear Christian voice – and that is exactly what Vision aims to be. Thank you for prayerfully considering the part you can play during Visionathon this May – to ensure we can keep the light burning bright.
Grace and peace, |
