A Look at Two Economies
April 18, 2009
You will recall that 2008 was a terrible economic year for many 
people globally. Folks who worked their entire lives saw their investments and pensions cut by one-half. Quite understandably, confidence in governments and financial institutions collapsed. Citizens expressed their outrage in a variety of ways, including the recent “tea parties.” These are difficult times, friends. That being true, what is the response of the Christian? It is a matter of perspective, I believe. Specifically, there are advantages to hard times. First, they cause the people of God to refocus on what is most important (Matt. 6:33). Secondly, hard times often result in unchurched and “hardly churched” people showing up in worship. Finally, hard times require special attention to spiritual formation; that is, people become interested in expanding their souls instead of their savings. What can we say to all this, West Broad and friends? Only that the global economy will fail us because at its best it is only temporary in nature. On the other hand, God’s economy will endure (1 Jn. 2:16-17). Despite the difficulty we may experience as people of faith, our ultimate hope is not in a job, pension plan, or stock portfolio. Our hope is in the living God and the “out of this world” benefits that only he can provide (2 Cor. 4:16-18). If your emphasis is on man’s economy, please re-think your position. Unlike earthly companies, the Father has never needed a “bail out!” You think about it! —JLNJR (Resource: Rev Magazine, May/June 2009, 43-44)
