How do you feel?
The financial system is teetering on the precipice. Recession or depression is upon us. A liberal who is going to raise our taxes and drive our economy into a deeper recession may be elected President. A senile old warmonger who knows little about the economy and will bring about World War III may be elected President. How do you feel?
Let’s make it more personal. Your financial position is teetering on the precipice. Your home has dropped 30% in value over the last two years. Your portfolio is down 25%, back to its 2001 valuation, thanks to the economic downturn. Meanwhile the cost of gas, a carton of milk, and just about everything else is up 33%. To make matters a little worse, you find out your employer will be downsizing and you are the low man on the totem pole. How do you feel?
Are you fearful or anxious? It is natural to be so, especially when you are “invested” in those things, both literally and figuratively. Who would not be fearful or anxious when the things you have worked for, indeed your very life, is crumbling around you?
Nevertheless, rejoice! God is giving you another opportunity to trust Him. [1] When God shakes the earth and the heavens you get to see which kingdom you are living in. [2] Let your feelings be the barometer. If you are fearful or anxious, let it drive you to repentance. Trust in the living God and ask Him for grace and help in your time of need. [3]
To grow stronger, build upon that foundation of trust. Actually do what Jesus said to do. [4] Consider the lilies of the valley. No, really consider them. Slow down, admire their beauty. Take pleasure in them. How hard are they striving to grow and be so beautiful? Realize that the richest man to ever live could not cloth himself so finely. Look at the birds. Study them. Are they sowing and reaping? Do they have vast barns built to store up for retirement? No, they are cared for by God. And are you not far more valuable to Him than they are? Of course you are! So rest in His love and care as one loved by God, in spite of the trials.
When good times come again, and they will, remember whose you are. Do not allow your heart to be captured again. Do not allow the cares of this world and the deceitfulness of riches during the good times to rob you of true joy. [5]
[1] - James 1:2-4
[2] - Hebrews 12:26-29
[3] - Hebrews 4:15-16
[4] - Matthew 6:25-28
[5] - Mark 4:18-19