We are all feeling the impact of the current economic climate. Effects are felt nationally, locally, and personally. We probably all have varying opinions on government bailouts, employee bonuses, tax rates, and the like. The stock market is like pond ice in Spring, dubious as to whether or not it will support one's weight. I am sure you have noticed that store prices have risen. And gas prices are also inching back north of $2 per gallon.
Personally most devastating is job losses. Detroit, MI has an unemployment rate of 22 percent. I hate it but I can live with that since Detroit is 900 miles away and I have no friends or relatives living there. Closer to heart and home though, Pilgrims Pride made another installment on their down-sizing today. Over 100 people lost jobs. That's tough to live with because many of those are friends and some are very dear friends. The fowl has gone foul.
I love what one friend said in response to losing their job. He and his wife both know that God remains in control and that God still has plans for their lives. They have sunshine even on a cloudy day in their life. And its not just their imagination.
The chicken industry is a major player in the local economy. It will continue to be so even after today. Even those who were ousted today will still eat chicken, though I would not blame them for trying out Tyson chicken.
How do we respond to changes in life that are beyond our control? What will we do now? Some will assess blame. Some will slip into depression. Some will grow angry and even bitter. Some will even point a finger at God and demand an answer to the question of why. Those are all responses of the natural man and, honestly, are easy for even Christians to fall victim to if they take their eyes off the Lord.
The answer to what we do now is to keep trusting Christ. That may sound really simple and obvious but it is the truth. We must keep our eyes on the Lord. Daniel in praying for his people confessed to God that they, as a people, had turned their faces away from Him. Nationally, we have done that too. Locally, let us remember things we already know and draw comfort from that knowledge. God is in control. God has both plan and purpose for His children. Keep your face turned toward God.
I am praying for my friends who have been forced to search for a new job. My heart is with them. My whole-hearted belief is that God will provide. Chicken was just a tool God used to bless them. Praise God that He has many many tools to use.
Whatever you face that has become difficult, painful, sour, or even foul, remember that God has not forgotten you nor is He ignoring you. He has plans to bless you and use you. Taste and see that the Lord is good. He's still finger-licking good.
Because He lives,
Robby
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
Posts
No comments:
Post a Comment