This is the second post in the “Tough Times, Tough Questions” series. Question 1 (Who’s to Blame?) is here.

In order to move forward out of difficult times–either as a nation or as individuals–we have to first ask, “How did we get here?” In our current economic situation, we have to acknowledge that we as consumers have contributed to the recession. Though not all forms of credit are bad, we should never live lifestyles dependent upon credit for survival or acceptance. We need to honestly admit the role credit and debt have played in getting us “here.”

Now we need ask ourselves the question, “What is most important?”

When we experience the pain of losing a loved one, we reflect on the importance of spending quality time with family. When we get physically ill, we recognize the importance of rest and nourishment. When we are fearful about our future, we remember the importance of prayer. Thus, when we consider our financial situations, we need to determine and commit to taking care of what’s most important.

Over time, financial surplus and success (or even perceived success) leads to the accumulation of unnecessary and superfluous pursuits. When income decreases or expenses increase, we have to make difficult choices about what to eliminate from our regular spending habits. This is rarely easy as we develop emotional connections to the things on which we spend our money. Though things such as expanded cable or satellite, cell phone minute plans,  internet service, and name brand clothes/shoes can add enjoyment and ease to our lives, we see that their value is much less than that of food, shelter, utilities, and preparing for the unexpected. In difficult times, we need to courageously recognize these differences and make changes if necessary.

In addition to these priorities, we need to remind ourselves that giving to the work of the Lord through His church is expected of all Christians, whether our income is great or small (1 Cor. 16:1-2).

In fact, the Lord promises us that if we do the latter–give to Him first, He will provide for us the former–the necessities of life (Matt. 6:33).

This entry was posted on Wednesday, July 8th, 2009 at 8:00 am and is filed under Uncategorized. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.