Stress. Anxiety. Fear. These words capture the state of mind of many Americans today when considering finances. We have witnessed dramatic market volatility, mistrust of banks and insurance companies, and personal roadblocks to financial security. Every day seems to bring another piece of economic uncertainty.
A recent survey found that more than three out of four Americans are stressed out about the economy and personal finances. Half were worried about providing for their family’s basic needs. Over half of respondents reported feeling angry and irritable, and reported lying awake at night worried about this. The conclusions lead to the statement, “The declining state of the nation’s economy is taking a physical and emotional toll on people nationwide.”
Join us in worship in October for a sermon series entitled Enough: Discovering Joy Through Simplicity and Generosity. Our nation is experiencing what many have described as the “American Nightmare.” Increasing consumer debt, declines in savings, lower income growth, and a volatile stock market are all a part of our economic insecurity. We live in a society that tell us “you deserve it now,” whether or not we can afford it or really even need it.
Many of us have struggled with these issues at one time or another. They are important issues that we cannot ignore. This is why, during October, we will have a worship emphasis on discovering what is enough in our lives. During this time we will explore what the Bible teaches about financial management. Each week we will provide some practical tools you can use too assess your financial situation and develop a financial plan with a Biblical foundation.
At the conclusion of this series, you will be offered the opportunity to make personal commitments of offering to God through our church in the coming year. We will consecrate these commitment s in the worship service on October 23. I hope you will join us in the coming weeks as we look at how we can manage our financial resources and truly experience simplicity, generosity and joy.
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