With all the talk about whether the U.S. is already in a recession or falling headlong into one, it's a great time for church communities to serve the nation.
Churches could step up their Crown Financial Ministries classes to teach good money use, host Q&A sessions with savvy financial experts within their congregations, survey and then address the financial needs of their members, increase benevolence funds, encourage members to collaborate with each other and partner with reliable mortgage lenders, bankers, realtors and businesses to help those snared in the housing crunch.
Ministries with enormous platforms on TV and the Internet could talk more about surviving and thriving when the economy goes south. They could specifically address handling finances and give a mike to those who don't mind describing their former money struggles and how God revealed powerful lessons for success.
Charlatan-led prosperity gimmicks should die off like parasites. Whether the gimmick is peddled by unsavory ministers or business people who deal with a sleight of hand, every financial idea should be tested by whether its ambition is to please the heart of God. Only the lasting financial, spiritual, physical and emotional wholeness that God offers should be sought, for He is not only the Giver of provision, He is Provision.
Now is not the time for Christians to allow a bunker mentality. We must talk about money. We must take care of our own homes and reach out to those within and outside our churches. Those who are a whiz at coupon-saving, trading stocks, maintaining cars, shopping, explaining insurance, balancing checkbooks, running businesses, investing in real estate and scores of other skills should not hoard their gifts. Share them and refuse to judge the people you help. And for those who are on the receiving end, be humble enough to be taught.
Despite the hardships of the current economy, I believe fresh opportunities are on the horizon. Though stocks may plunge and the credit crisis worsens, those who know their God can and will do mighty exploits for Him.
Comments