Freefall

Written by Tim MacGowan

As financial markets worldwide went into a freefall this week, it is easy to feel shaken with uncertainty about the future. What has happened to my net worth? What about my job? Are we headed into another Great Depression?

I’ve never skydived but I can imagine the fear that must accompany jumping out of a plane and plunging downward at a high rate. You would have to have complete confidence that the parachute will open in time to save you from a shattering stop. No one is sure at this point what the final economic outcome will be during this collapse. But right now it is appropriate to remember that our parachute is not the safety of our portfolios but the safety of a loving and faithful God.

This is a perfect time for followers of Jesus Christ to remember some important facts:

• God is still God. He isn’t nervous or shaken by what is happening right now. He hasn’t lost control of the situation even if our leaders have. He can use such difficulties to achieve his purposes.
• He is faithful to take care of those who put their trust in him. He cares for us in the good times and He is still there in the hard times.
• There is no need for Christians to live with any sense of fear or panic. The Bible teaches us that our lives are “hidden with Christ in God.”
• We were meant to travel life together. We need to encourage each other to keep our focus on important things and eternal things when this world is unstable.

If you are tempted to worry right now, here is a great Scripture verse that I would encourage you to write down, post on your mirror or refrigerator and read often Remember that the “fear of the Lord” doesn’t mean being afraid but to honor God in attitude and action. “He will be the sure foundation for your times, a rich store of salvation and wisdom and knowledge; the fear of the LORD is the key to this treasure.” Isa. 33:6