2 Corinthians 8:14
“At this present time your abundance being a supply for their need, so that their abundance also may become a supply for your need, that there may be equality.”
Here we are in the midst of a disruption that we did not anticipate and we have little control of. So, what do we do?
DON’T DENY THE IMPACT. This thing has greatly impacted Penny and me financially, but we are refusing to allow it to slam us! God is our provider. We are His stewards. Our finances and our lives are closely linked. It was Jesus who said where our treasure is, there our heart would be. (Matthew 6:21) Financial issues have collateral effect on us, but they do not have to control us. Jesus is Lord. That’s the glory of the Father! (Philippians 2:10-11)
DON’T STOP SOWING. Storms move seed into places we can never get them into! I’ve seen trees growing out of the side of rock cliffs! I believe Penny and I have prospered because we have been tithers and givers consistently for many years. So we are going to continue to sow in the storm. That decision was made long ago. Jesus is Lord over our giving; our giving is not dictated by our circumstances.
DON’T BE A HOARDER. This is not a time to hang onto things that can help others or to bury our treasure. Fear of loss is the fear of God not supplying our needs. Whether it’s toilet paper or money, don’t allow fear to motivate you.
DON’T STOP INVESTING. If you follow the history of wealth, many of those who have generated tremendous recourse did so in down markets while others were just trying to survive. They made strategic investments, and they believed in the future! Likewise, we should do also. In ministry right now, we have investment opportunities that the storm has brought to our doorstep. Let’s not turn them away, but welcome the opportunities in. When the apostle Paul was confident that they would make land, he said, “Therefore I encourage you to take some food, for this is for your preservation, for not a hair from the head of any of you will perish. Having said this, he took bread and gave thanks to God in the presence of all, and he broke it and began to eat.” (Acts 27:34-35) Let’s demonstrate that we trust God!