Torch, Spring/Summer 2009

2 TORCH | Spring–Summer 2009 Can Anyone Understand the Economy? T he matrix of factors that affects our economy is stupefying. Even the experts can’t agree and often resort to double-speak in response to direct questions! Imagine the following interaction on a popular news talk show: “We have with us today Dr. Phillip Eddington Stiles, a leading economist,” says the interviewer. “Dr. Stiles, how long will the current economic chaos last?” Dr. Stiles clears his throat and answers, “Taking into consideration the downturn in consumer spending and the relative instability of the credit markets, the global economic indices point to a persistent fluctuation in performance. This will bring about short-term inconsistencies that should not be confused with long-term viability that can point to detectable corrections to the uncertainties we are now experiencing.” The host winces. “You have no idea, do you?” Stiles clears his throat again. “That’s what I just said.” The economy may be complex, but it’s not beyond our comprehension — especially when we see it from God’s perspective. by Dr. Bill Brown NARVIKK / ISTOCKPHOTO;VASILIYYAKOBCHUK / ISTOCKPHOTO