As we listen to all the economic news, and see people who are devastated by the losses they have suffered, we might be tempted to forget some big truths. Some of those big truths can be found in the pen of the Apostle Paul, who suffered in many ways as he labored to spread the Good News. While in prison, he wrote,
Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. (Philippians 4:11-13)
This is the attitude that Christians should be displaying before the world at all times, but particularly in times like these. If we go around burdened down by worry, we are not offering a solid testimony to God’s provision.
Like everyone else, I have watched as my supposed retirement funds have drained away. Beyond that, we have had to spend money in the past few months that was a significant part of our emergency fund. Well, that’s what an emergency fund is for, isn’t it?
In the midst of all this, I have to remember that no bank, no mutual fund, no government promise is my source of provision. God is the ultimate provider, and that’s where my faith must rest.
Paul, later in the same chapter, talks about the generosity of the Philippians, and then says, “And my God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus.” That promise must be understood in context. He will supply our needs, but only if we continue to give generously and look to Him as our source. In another place, Paul notes that God loves a cheerful giver. That’s especially true when the giving is more of a sacrifice. But if we remain faithful, He will honor that faithfulness.
Our nation needs to see Christians who respond in this way to the economic crisis. It needs to see a shining manifestation of faith.