Romans 8:28-29
Introduction: Today, many face tough times. The economy, our president says, will get worse before it gets better. Many have lost a lot of their 401K or other means of retirement. Many states have already faced layoffs
And the unemployment numbers are growing daily.
Some may wonder “Just what can I do?” “Where is hope?” The Bible gives answers and hope. The principles of the Bible work in good times and in tough times. They worked in great times of prosperity and during the Great depression. Why does a country or a people face tough times?
Today, I will share with you some Bible principals that can be a help to you.
I . God Can Use Recession To Expose A Hidden Sin And bring us to repentance A. Sometimes the sin is covetousness – Exodus 20:17 1. covetousness is something we desire more than the Lord or the things of the Lord. You desire it enough that you will over spend to buy it = charge your cards to the max or live beyond your means. This can also lead to dishonest gain
2. something you gain desire more than the Lord or something that is more precious to you than the Lord
a. this leads to discontent or even envy
b. when we put something above serving the Lord
B. Sometimes God shows us that we can really live without certain “things.” 1. a recession may be used of God to get Christians to place their focus back on the Lord
2. we need to realize that it’s all about the Lord and not about “me”
II. God Can Use recession To Relocate The Roots Of Our Joy In His Grace Rather Than In Our Goods
A. John 15:11 – (that my joy might remain in you – Joy be full) B. Matthew 25:21 (joy of the Lord) John 15:11 (Joy be full)
C. We need to trust in God’s Mercy rather than our money and trust in His worth rather than our wealth.
1. Phil. 4:19 (God supply ALL need) Some may slack off in their tithing and missions – God’s principals work in “tough times” and not just in “good times.” Jeremiah 23:23 (God at hand and not afar off)
2. this verse and Bible principal applies in “tough times” – not just good times. 3. He may desire that we TRUST in Him instead of our own resources = money – talents – etc.
III. God May Use Recession To Demonstrate His Power
A. II Corinthians 4:7 (power of God & not us)
B. The power of prayer = believing and asking Jeremiah 33:3, 32:17 and verse 27
C. II Corinthians 8:1-5 (Macedonians, poverty) – Acts 12:5 (Peter in prison)
IV. God May Use recession To Show How The Church Can Care For “Hurting Members”
A. Galatians 6:2 (bear burdens) = people who are hurting
B. Romans 15:1 (strong bear infirmities of weak) = in the faith
V. God Can Use Recession To Teach Us The Value Of Family And Friends A. Quality family time = talking – spending time together around the house 1. working together = teaching children “how to” do certain jobs = learning experience
2. playing games together
3. you don’t have to spend money to have fun
VI. God Can Use Recession To Help Us To Reach Others For The Lord
A. Sometimes, when things get rough, many may turn to the Lord 1. they will “search” for peace and happiness
2. don’t be shy – share Christ with them – bring them to church – share Scriptures with them pray with them
B. Jude Vs 24 – compassion
Conclusion: God’s Word is always True. God’s principals always work regardless of the situation that
you are in. Trust in the Lord & not in self nor in your situation – Proverbs 3:5.
Folks are tempted not to “trust” in God’s Word when things get tough. But these are the times when
We MUST believe God – Must believe God’s Word. The unsaved world may look to you and see how you “hold up.” If you don’t, who will show them the goodness of God? If you fail, how will they believe?
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FAITH - HOPE - FORGIVENESS by Growing Older 