I have been studying the book of Isaiah using some commentaries for insight- Calvin and Brueggemann. The Scriptures often speak to me in whatever circumstances I find myself in. I found Isaiah 7 particularly relevant to current events.
There is a sense of unease with many that I talk to about the economy. Our nation has experienced problems in the housing market and lending institutions that has threatened to put a lot of banks out of business. Credit is tight. Fear and pessimism are high.
Our federal government has announced a plan to stimulate the economy that could cost taxpayers billions. The byproducts of a poor economy are more government spending, higher budget deficits and higher inflation.
What does Isaiah say to the believer in God's control over all things in this world during this time? Two verses:
Isaiah 7:4, "Say to him, 'Be careful, be quiet, do not fear...'"
Isaiah 7:9, "If you are not firm in faith, you will not be firm at all."
We have a choice: to walk in faith or fear. What a great opportunity for believers to demonstrate that our trust is in Christ and not the fickleness of world economies. It is also a good opportunity to show that biblically based financial planning works.
What are the basic principles of biblical finance?
- Keep your lifestyle much lower than your income stream.
- Save and give a significant percentage of your income.
- Work hard- use your abilities to serve God and others.
- Diversify your investment assets- have a plan to manage principal and inflation risk.
- Be organized- don't leave your family with an estate mess.
- Act in faith, not fear. Pray for the prosperity of the city you live in and be active in seeking the renovation of creation for God's purposes.
What has been formed by God has been deformed by sin and needs to be reformed by Christ.
For God's Glory,
Ashley Hodge
1 comment:
Preach on Brother, good advice!
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