Uncertain Times

Locally our area has been hit hard by plant closures . Over the last 6 years we have seen in total 3 affected . Of those 3 , only one still maintains a skeleton staff. With the news today of another plant closing ,that makes 4. It is business , and these plants have seen the products they produce (poultry,beef,pork)shrink in profitability.

That makes a total of more than 1000 decent paying jobs gone.Do the math and add it up ,the effect on the local area is being felt.The jobs that have been created, by and large to replace these jobs, pay at least 4 to 5 dollars less , have less benefits and  in general ,are not 40 hours a week . That is the nature of the area I live in. For those who are doing well here , it is an amazing area to live but those who are struggling , it is tough.

So what should the Church be doing within the community when these type of things occur . Now first let me say , I do not think or believe in the social gospel having a prominent role over the true gospel of the cross , the preaching of Christ and the call to repent and believe to be saved .The very first task of the Church is to preach the gospel and call sinners to repentance . But we have been called to good works , that were prepared for us to do for God's glory.

For those without means to help in a financial way ,pray for those families . Lift them up that God will meet their needs . Not only physically but spiritually as  well. That if they do not confess that Jesus is lord , that salvation would come upon then and their house.

Now for those with means to help ,if they are in a position personally to do something act.don't just sit on your hands .


[17] As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. [18] They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, [19] thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.
(1 Timothy 6:17-19 ESV)

I love what Paul lays out here . First he tells those well off first not to put their faith in riches because things can happen very quickly and money can be gone . They are not to be haughty , a snob if you will who basically flaunt their success , by saying look at me . They should trust in God first , for He is the only certain thing in this life . Next they are to be rich in good works . One who has Christ as their treasure does not hold on money like a Scrooge . If they see a situation to help they do. A Christian who is tight with money is an oxymoron. In fact some commentary's point to how generous and willing to share and not hoard money ,is a barometer of ones salvation.

By seeing an situation to do good and responding , shows the heart. When you hear of people losing their jobs realize it can be a emotional roller coaster ,so pray for them and if you know them , look for tangible ways to support them . If they don't know Christ , ask God to open a door to share Christ. If they need real help when they are waiting for EI or assistance , and you can ,do so.

I vow that if God ever blesses me with money , I will not hoard it but will share it to help others in need . We need to see riches ,jobs ,family,friends as things that are uncertain ,We cannot put our trust or hope in. But God is a rock , the same yesterday,today and forever. If He is our treasure , the money will be easy to part with . For the bottom line , we came in naked in this world and we cannot take it with you.

So in these uncertain times may we as Christians , be awake to the hurts around us and be moved to love and show compassion. By doing so , showing the love of God who did not withhold His Son , so that we might not perish but have eternal life .