My mind is racing. After blogging about coupons, I have been thinking about “finances/money”.
I heard on the radio that James Dobson’s Focus on the Family laid off 20% of its workforce. Definitely due to the economic downturns, but I assume also because of lesser support from its donors (since FOF is a nonprofit that rely on giving friends).
And in another front, I read a post on how to survive these depressing times. Different writers and experts are telling me(you) a lot of confusing things. Should we put more money into the stock market? Should we hoard cash? Should we buy gold? (HA! Like I even have extra money to start with.)
In dark times like we are in now, there is no assurance that investing into the financial market will get you more money in the long term. There is no security in the banks, or in our investments anymore. It’s mindboggling that the whole foundation of the world’s financial structure rests on “speculations” and fear. Where there is fear of collapse, there shall surely be one. Whoever conceived of the stock market has it so wrong!
How can we survive the recession? Here’s something radical to consider – GIVE AWAY.
Give more. Give beyond your capacity. Give to the Kingdom. This is the only secret to having a secure future.
It’s been proven since time began, that when one gives, the blessings come back beyond measure. If you think your 401K and stocks will get you through to your old age, well how’s this? If you give to God, he will reward you beyond your lifetime. And your children beyond them.
See, God is the one who supplies our every need anyway. He’s the Source of all blessing. He controls the floodgates, and when he opens it, you can be sure the blessings from heaven will be a torrential rain. Oh no, don’t expect just a shower, or “beggar’s food”. It’s a flood. It’s a bountiful harvest. It’s like fishnets ripping open.
But what is asked of us? GIVE. Your whole tithe, your generous gifts, your offerings of thanksgiving. Oy, don’t be stingy! Don’t be worried. Don’t be counting either. Just. GIVE.
And then you’ll have more, and there will not be enough room for it, so says the Lord.
“Now he who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will also supply and increase your store of seed and will enlarge the harvest of your righteousness.
You will be made rich in every way so that you can be generous on every occasion, and through us your generosity will result in thanksgiving to God.” (2 Corinthians 9:10-11)
