Interest is high in the Shemitah, blood moons and varied prophecies concerning judgment and economic collapse. Speculation is heightened regarding what will happen in the economy during September and October of this year. The Lord is sovereign. No one knows with certainty what the economy will be like in a few months. But we can look at danger signs in the U.S. and global economy. We can take actions in the natural when justified, and we can seek the Lord more.
There are signs of life in parts of the domestic and global economies, but there are also many concerns. Collapsing oil prices, falling gold prices, dropping copper prices and the increasing value of the dollar against most foreign currencies pose risks. The amount of domestic and global debt are worrisome. Stock and bond prices appear to be overvalued. Liquidity in the bond market is becoming more of an issue. The Chinese economy is weakening. Much of southern Europe has debt and fiscal issues. Many developing and emerging countries are facing increased economic struggles. Central banks are running out of options to address significant challenges. Economies are fragile on many different fronts.
Regardless of what happens in September or October, the last days will be filled with trials, difficulties and the greatest move of God in history. Many of the trials and perils will directly or indirectly involve money, markets, wealth and economics. It will be a time of judgment and separation where all of mankind will be able to choose and demonstrate whether we will follow the Lord or other fleshly and worldly desires.
"Know this: In the last days perilous times will come. Men will be lovers of themselves, lovers of money" (2 Tim. 3:1-2).
But as born-again, on-fire, Spirit-filled Christians, we have been promised victory. We have been promised an abundant life. We are not at the mercy of the plans and attacks of the enemy. We follow the King and He is in control.
"The thief does not come, except to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly" (John 10:10).
We have the Word of God, the companionship of the Lord Jesus, and are empowered by the Holy Spirit. Victory is assured.
"If you remain in Me, and My words remain in you, you will ask whatever you desire, and it shall be done for you" (John 15:7).
"Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly beyond all that we ask or imagine, according to the power that works in us" (Eph. 3:20).
The end times will be a time of peril, but also a time of great opportunity and witnessing. As the world struggles, the light of the kingdom will shine brighter. The righteousness, peace and joy of citizens of the kingdom will stand in stark contrast to the lawless, anxious and saddened world. The wisdom of the sons and daughters of the King will be obvious when compared to the confusion of the world. Citizens of the kingdom will be known for their power, compared to the world's weakness. There will be more opportunities to witness. Let us be strong and courageous and take advantage of the opportunities ahead.
Dr. James Russell is a professor of economics and undergraduate chair of the College of Business at Oral Roberts University.
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