Economic Hardship

Unless you live under a rock, you're aware that the last few weeks have been pretty tumultuous for the United States economy. That, in turn, has affected economies all over the world. Frankly, I don't know why someone doesn't just go find Frannie Mae and her husband Freddie and haul those guys in. I guess they're with Osama.  

Either way, these are financially uncertain times. 

Some of the people I'm acquainted with who are affected most by the economic realities are local and global ministry partners. The state of the dollar was already in the toilet, and a lot of missionaries and mission organizations were struggling already just to make ends meet. We had a fairly steady stream of missionaries through the offices this summer who were already struggling to survive on the field, and recent events haven't helped. 

For the vast majority of you who are like me, the economic situation right now doesn't impact your day-to-day life right now. You weren't planning on retiring next year, and don't work in an industry where your job might be lost tomorrow. And gas prices are down, so your financial world actually feels better than it did a month or two ago (at least until you turn on CNN). 

Try being a contrarian. 

These economically uncertain times (at least for now) probably only mean you can't get your $10 cup of coffee from Starbucks every morning. But for some of our local and global missionaries, the situation will mean they have to leave their homes and jobs, because (sadly) over-and-above giving is one of the first things cut from many budgets. 

Instead of pulling back, can I urge you to lean in to uncertain times by ramping-up your generosity over the next few months? Consider adding more support to those people whose ministries depend on our generosity so that you can compensate for those who are unable to continue their support. Kari and I are going to lead the charge with some of the missionaries we support. We're not cutting back - we're ramping up. This is as good a time as any. 

We're called to live in an eternal reality investing in eternal things. Our treasure and heart should be in the same place (Luke 12:34)  and to us, economically uncertain times are the best time to be dumping our resources into things guaranteed not to fail. 

Be a contrarian. Find a ministry that's having an eternal impact, and consider partnering with thing or ramping up your support during these times. If you need some recommendations, I'd love to give you some insider investing tips. Invest in things that are insured forever. I promise you won't miss the money.