Day 20: The Economy

(Banks, Lending Institutions, and Greed)

The uncertainties of the economy affect all of us in different ways, including those ministries that seek to spread the Gospel globally. Very often missions organizations are the first to suffer in an economic slowdown. Pray for a healthy recovery in all sectors of the economy and that a spiritual awakening will take place that helps overcome greed. Pray also that God will get the attention of Christians to depend on Him, to reject the ways of the world, and that a true revival will result. The great spiritual awakening of the 1850s, in which hundreds of thousands came to Christ, began as a result of a nationwide failure of America’s banking system. In particular, as you serve as a watchman of the Lord today, ask God to allow Hebrews 13:5 (paraphrased) to come alive in the hearts of His children: “Make sure that your character is free from the love of money, being content with what you have; for He Himself has said, ‘I will never desert you, nor will I ever forsake you.’” More specifically, intercede for individuals you know of “by name” who have lost their jobs and are struggling financially. Ask God to open opportunities for them to find meaningful employment. Additionally, pray that Christians will continue to give faithfully to their local churches and other worthy ministries.

Today’s Passage:

1 Timothy 6:5-10

And constant friction between people of corrupt mind, who have been robbed of the truth and who think that godliness is a means to financial gain. But godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and we can take nothing out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with that. Those who want to get rich fall into temptation and a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires that plunge people into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.