In the Old Testament, the book of Habakkuk, God speaks about His plans for the nation of Israel. In chapter two God says His plans will come about at the "appointed time". Looking back on history it took years for the "appointed time" to arrive, but it did arrive. In John chapter 8 it says Jesus "time was not yet". But His time came within weeks, His death and resurrection. Habakkuk is long term view and the Jesus passage is short term view. Both are important. Some times it feels like no matter what you do there will be this outside force that will wipe away all one has done, e.g financial markets, driving safely but being hit by a drunk driver. In terms of the long term view (marco) one needs ot beware of trends. In terms of short term view ones needs to do what one can in every detail of their lives to make themselves and others around them better. While at the same time realizing that we need to trust in the God who is there to protect, provide and guide us.
At the time of this writing I am aware of the potential of the financial markets, opening in just four hours in Asia, going through a melt down because of the economic down turn and the S&P rating downgrade given to the USA. For the last three years our government has continue to spend more than it takes in. No matter what any politician says regarding living within our means, its only talk. There is no action to back up those words. If we were to take action to reduce spending, it would take lots of pain and time, but the future would be brighter for our country and for those looking for jobs. If we continue to spend more, each and every one of us would be affected by the devaluation of our currency the dollar. Either way is painful but one has a better outcome in my opinion.
So what does one do? Long term understand the trend and make short term adjustments. The power you and I have is the short term. Get your house in order. Look at your financial situation as a business and begin to operate with margin, if you haven't already. Make those tough choices to spend less than you bring home. Decide to live on the 80-10-10 principle: Live on 8o%, save (pay yourself) 10%, and give 10% to God through the church you attend. We also have a long term (macro) power, vote for those who will cut spending. It's never fun to cut. We always feel better when we spend, until you are bankrupt or the value of the dollar is worthless. Long term and short term views of life. God gives us the power of choice. Chose well my friends. Just a thought.
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