Torch, Spring/Summer 2009

20 TORCH | Spring–Summer 2009 N ervous? Apprehensive? For many of us, that doesn’t even begin to cover what we’re feeling. And the media and government have certainly given us enough material to worry about. The American economy isn’t quite right, and we should be concerned. At the same time, though, it’s important that we respond in a way that glorifies God and draws others to Him. So, what can we do? I suggest seven responses Christians should have to the current economy. Live As Stewards This is foundational to how we think and act in regard to our money and possessions. If we believe we are the primary owners of our resources, we will hold on tightly and worry about keeping our things safe. However, if we recognize the truth that God owns everything (Psalm 24:1) and that our role is to be faithful stewards (1 Cor. 4:2), then we will hold our belongings with open hands. As owner, God has the right to do with His possessions as He sees fit. Job reminds us, “The Lord gave and the Lord has taken away; may the name of the Lord be praised” (Job 1:21). Keep Giving Giving is a tangible reminder that what we have belongs to God. Words of the hymn “We Give Thee but Thine Own” speak of God’s ownership and our giving in return: “We give Thee but Thine own, Whate’er the gift may be: All that we have is Thine alone, A trust, O Lord, fromThee.” When we give willingly, it keeps us from holding onto material things too dearly. As my wife reminded me recently, giving can protect us from selfishness. In 2 Corinthians 8:1–5, Paul speaks to the Corinthian church about giving and commends the Macedonian believers: “In a great ordeal of affliction, their abundance of joy and their deep Responding to the Economic Crisis by Jeff Guernsey Big-picture solutions to the economy have their place. But weathering the storm starts with personal financial management. SLAVOLJUB PANTELIC / ISTOCKPHOTO