I wonder what the economic downturn has taught us this past year? Some of you have been affected, some of you have not and yet we are all aware of its impact. When the future of money seems more uncertain then in years past do you find yourself tightening your grip on what you have or loosening it? When we live our lives in the reality that everything is a gift from God, we naturally tend to be more conservative towards ourselves, and more liberal toward others.
When the economic tides change for whatever reason, if I have not developed the habit of being conservative toward myself, I am stuck with financial obligations that will no longer allow me to be liberal towards others. We amass fixed expenses in order to obtain to a certain lifestyle in which we feel comfortable. When money runs short, the fixed expenses must be paid or penalties begin to mount.
To be conservative toward myself means I keep fixed expenses at a level that remains 'doable' even if my income were to take a hit. Furthermore, I do everything in my power to ensure that nothing interferes with my capacity to live generously towards others because living generously is a priority. Our daily habit must be walking in conversation with God who gave us everything, and dialoguing in regards to how He wants us to invest for eternity. Who knows, that ideal investment may cross our paths today. I pray I don't miss it but respond with open hands.
Aaron
