When circumstances force men to look at how temporary the world’s goods really are, bad economic news becomes an opportunity for the Gospel. Pray for a spiritual awakening.
Also, people who still have work and are keeping their heads above water are inclined to hold on a little tighter to their resources, not knowing what the future will bring. I want to encourage believers who are doing reasonably well to be wise, but also remember the less fortunate. In the glory days of the early church, we are told, “there was not a needy person among them” (Acts 4:34) because of the generosity of fellow believers. The biblical command to “bear one another’s burdens” was taken quite seriously. This is another opportunity to let faith shine as we trust God enough with our situations to be generous toward others.
I don’t need to lecture our people on helping those in need. We have a generous church. But I do want to make it known that as needs become more acute, and more widespread, our Benevolent Fund resources will probably be strained over the next year or so. I would ask every brother and sister who is being blessed by the Lord during these difficult times to remember those who are struggling and help someone directly, or give to the Benevolent Fund. We make every effort to use the Benevolent Fund resources wisely. Taking care of each other in practical ways is a vital, and not to be forgotten part of church ministry.
Yours in Christ,
Originally printed in the Acton Faith Bible Church Pony Express. Vol. II, No. 03, March2009.