June 4, 2023
If you’re like me and my depleting bank account, goods and services have reached an all-time purchasing low in my household. Everything is more expensive, and the way gas prices continue to pivot, I now pull up to the pump, close my eyes, squint at the current price per gallon and either sigh as I insert my battered credit card, or give the Lord a happy thank you and covert high-five for a reasonable chance at filling my tank! These are the signs of the time.
Bottom line, no matter what your financial circumstances, our standard of living is hurting. But through all this I’m learning more about true humility. The freedom from pride or arrogance : the quality or state of being humble, accepting my circumstances with humility, while knowing this too shall pass. Nevertheless, in creeps stress, no matter how hard we prepare and pray. Not since 2007 through 2009 has the U.S. suffered our longest and deepest economic downturn. The recent failures of Silicon Valley Bank and Signature Bank have further stoked fears that an economic downturn is inevitable, And along with the downturn, comes the stress.
According to Morning Consult, they say — 44% are saving more money or building an emergency fund, and 39% are cutting back on spending or spending more strategically. A small share, 11%, are stockpiling goods or food. The remaining 6% indicated “other.” A lot of it is PTSD from the global financial crisis of 2008. But the numbers today — including recent stock performance — are stronger than 2007-09. If you're wondering about your paycheck remember, an economic downturn may also create a situation where even those who are still employed earn less!
Humility can help us cope with fast-changing circumstances. I recently stopped buying certain foods at the grocery store because their prices rose dramatically, as I’m sure many families and individuals have had to do. We Believers know there will be many circumstances we can’t predict and nor control. That’s reality. High inflation is not something to be ignored. It is something to be responded to and prepared for both financially and spiritually. I advise everyone to Stress-test your finances, if possible try to save more cash, and reduce your debt. But most importantly when stressed remember to pray and seek a small peace. Be that a walk along the beach, strenuous exercise, or even the ear of a trusted friend. You may learn you're not the only hard-working, determined, spiritually empowered Believer with your concerns.
You know I always advise giving even when in need. It fills the heart, spirit and mind, and pleases our Father. So don’t forget to be charitable to those in need, even when your own personal finances are challenged. Whatever you have is what God has allowed you to manage for Him. Giving is fulfilling and so is helping others to have a solid income (i.e., job help) and managing their finances well. So don’t ignore your heart in these challenging times and those to come.
“Behold, I am sending you out as sheep in the midst of wolves, so be wise as serpents and innocent as doves.
But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you. “Therefore do not be anxious about tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Sufficient for the day is its own trouble.
Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.
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