How to Respond in Times of Crisis

We have experienced some traumatic events in America in the past week. We have seen the devastation that Hurricane Ike left in Texas and in other states. Officials are not sure of how much life has been lost and may be impossible to ever tell. We are able to catch a glimpse of the loss of property and possessions. We have observed a financial meltdown on Wall Street and reports of seven hundred billion dollars of investor money has been wiped out. There has been a tragic train accident in California. We look at the candidating process taking place in our government grow increasingly disgusted as ads for both sides turn even more negative, with hardly a solution to the challenges facing us as a country being given. On a personal note, there are individuals within our own church family facing some significant challenges related to health, jobs and other concerns. So how should we respond to these times of crisis? I appreciated what H.B. London shared in a recent email, so I pass on his points (with some editorial comments of my own).

1. Don't panic. Our faith is in God -- not government, nor money. The psalmist wrote "God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in time of trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, and the mountains slip into the heart of the sea" (Psalm 46:1-2). Here's a thought - suppose neither presidential candidate is up to the task of handling the challenges that face America? Peggy Noonan has written a thought provoking article entitled "Why It's Getting Mean" with the subtitle: "supporters of both candidates doubt their man can do the job" (you can read it here). Our faith is not in a president but in Our God who can see us through the difficult times.

2. Encourage one another. Don't despair. We have a tremendous opportunity as believers in Christ to share our trust in God who is superintending the events of our world, even though we may not understand all that He is doing. His ultimate purpose is not to make our life easy, but to orchestrate events that will make us more receptive to turning to Him and walking closely with Him through the crisis of life.

3. Be Wise. Make smart decisions - the best that you can make to minimize your losses. Keep your credit card debt low (or better, non-existent). Save instead of spend and turn to trusted counsel. Determine what things are necessities and what things are luxuries. I read that the economy is beginning to affect the attendance in Major League Sports (here). People are making choices between food and fuel, versus the high cost of these entertainment events. There are a lot of opportunities in our own backyards for enjoyable experiences.

4. Increase Your Faith Practices. Don't miss church (you knew that would come - but H.B. mentioned it first - and its true). Sing, worship, pray, read, and assemble. "Give thanks in all circumstances" (1 Thess 5:18).

5. Remember that God knows your Situation. He cares about you. Don't fret. Jesus says, "who of you worrying can add a single hour to your life?" (Matt. 6:27). Paul writes, "May the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way" (2 Thess. 3:16).

(Source for my expanded thoughts was from the Pastor's Weekly Briefing, September 19, 2008)