What to do in the midst of recession

The toll of recession-related job loss in America has begun to head into the millions. The numbers are staggering.

Whether black or white, rich or poor, from California or Florida, young or old, they all have something in common these days: uncertainty and fear.

As a pastor of a congregation of proportionate size, some within our fellowship are feeling the effects of these economic challenges. Since this financial spiral began, I have always tried to remain optimistic and faithful in God and in His Word.

Even though the times in which we live seem frustrating and difficult, there is something you can do in this recession: Don’t live your life in fear.

Let’s admit it; we are living in a fear-based culture right now. Many people are living in fear of lack or not having enough to live. One thing you can do during these times is to acknowledge that God is your source. When you understand this, you position yourself to live a fearless life.

I have learned so many life lessons through these trying moments. The major thing I have learned is life is a series of choices. We have been given a right to choose. We can choose to live in fear or live by faith. Deuteronomy 30:19 says, “I call heaven and Earth to record this day against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore, choose life, that both you and your seed may live.” During this economic meltdown, I choose to live a fearless life.

If you are reading this article, know that God is using these words to comfort and encourage you not to fear. Napoleon said, “He who fears being conquered is sure of defeat.” Make a quality decision today not to allow this economic situation to cause you to be overcome by fear and, ultimately, defeat.

When a spirit of fear comes over you, it disrupts life, drains your spiritual strength and clouds your judgment. God says, “Fear not” more than 360 times in the Bible, because He wants us to rely on Him when fearful times come.

When the evening news reports economic collapse, crime and natural disasters, it can ignite anxiety. Maybe you’ve experienced loss, thought failure was inevitable, or become frozen and unable to take the next step in life. You may be going through a storm, but there is a way to leave your fear behind and have a lasting peace.

Jesus died to take your fears away. Jesus said, “Peace I leave with you, my peace I give unto you; not as the world gives, give I unto you. Let not your heart be troubled neither let it be afraid.” It’s possible to have peace in the middle of a storm. We are in a financial storm right now and, with God, His peace can rule in your life. Draw close to God and His Kingdom. In God’s Kingdom, there is no economic crisis.

Many people are turning to financial gurus and financial experts for answers to this recession. I’m not against seeking out people who are financially intelligent, but ultimately, we need to look to someone greater than ourselves. Two Chronicles 20:3 says, “And Jehoshaphat feared, and set himself to seek the Lord.” Jehoshaphat was the King of Judah, and he was facing a great dilemma. Even though it brought fear in his life, he decided to look to the Lord for his deliverance.

This is what we need to do as people and as a nation: seek the Lord. This is what we need to do in this recession.

The Rev. McQueen is co-pastor of Family Life Christian Church International.