It takes strong faith to launch a major enterprise during a time of recession. One man who was a passionate lover of God did so. And the profit he made was purely amazing – one hundred percent! He became so rich that some even started envying him! Well, the man’s name was Isaac and his enterprise, agro products (Genesis 26:12,13,14).
Today, recession has become a familiar term since nations around the world are affected by it. Media analysts affirm that nations like India and China are successfully tackling this giant. World leaders are searching to find strong measures to lift up the economy.
The Bible speaks of God as One who loves to see people and nations progress. He is a God of increase and growth. He wants His children to prosper in every area, including their finances. So He set specific principles that usher in productivity. The principle of giving is one among that.
In 2 Corinthians 8:1-6, we read about Apostle Paul writing to the Corinthian church about the generous giving of the churches in Macedonia. He says, “…brothers, we want you to know about the grace that God has given the Macedonian churches. Out of the most severe trial, their overflowing joy and their extreme poverty welled up in rich generosity. For I testify that they gave as much as they were able, and even beyond their ability. Entirely on their own, they urgently pleaded with us for the privilege of sharing in this service to the saints. And they did not do as we expected, but they gave themselves first to the Lord and then to us in keeping with God’s willâ€.
Giving for the expansion of God’s Kingdom is an important aspect of the New Testament church. Whether there is financial crisis or not, we are supposed to give more than our time for the work of proclaiming the Good News and discipling nations.
Like Isaac sowed during a time of recession and had a hundred-fold harvest, you can give during a financial crisis and receive a multiple profit! Some times, you may not feel like giving since the financial inflow is low. But when you give in faith in spite of your feelings, there will surely be a breakthrough.
In Malachi 3:10-12, the Lord says, “Bring the whole tithe into the storehouse, that there may be food in my house. Test me in this and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it. I will prevent pests from devouring your crops, and the vines in your fields will not cast their fruit. Then all the nations will call you blessed, for yours will be a delightful land.†God guarantees you His abundance as you do what He asks you to do.
So, if you are sensing a financial meltdown, start applying the giving-principle. God will open new doors for you to have a job, if you have lost your job. He will give you wisdom to work productively, if you are seeking advancement in your job. There may even be surprise gifts from people coming your way!
– – – written by Joe Abraham & Ancy Joe
