Lack of confidence is apparently at the heart of the economic woes being experienced across the world.
Markets are not confident that debts can be repaid or interest payments made, so they raise the cost of borrowing.
Investors have little confidence that they will earn a good return on their risk, so they keep their money safe. This lack of confidence then has costly effects all round the financial cycle.
What a difference is the way the Lord works. If we have confidence in Him, he promises to repay our confidence in wonderful ways.
The prophet Malachi told his hearers that the Lord promises a very good return on investments. 'Bring all the tithes into the storehouse so there will be enough food in my Temple. If you do,” says the Lord of Heaven’s Armies, “I will open the windows of heaven for you. I will pour out a blessing so great you won’t have enough room to take it in! Try it! Put me to the test!' (Malachi 3.10)
When His people trust him, have confidence in His promises, and 'invest' in His work, in whatever way, He promises to multiply their efforts.
It is wonderful to report that so far, the St. Andrew's Day Appeal has raised over £20,000. I have no idea who has given what, but together, the Lord has enabled us to be generous. Please join me in thanking Him for this good sign of our shared commitment to His work.
Jesus gives us a very clear principle, which translates into every area of life. 'Give, and you will receive. Your gift will return to you in full—pressed down, shaken together to make room for more, running over, and poured into your lap. The amount you give will determine the amount you get back.” (Luke 6.38)
We now look forward to seeing the returns on our investments, in lives and communities changed through encountering Jesus himself.
best wishes,
Richard
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