Stress, Anxiety. Fear. These words capture
well the state of mind of many of us in America today. We witnessed dramatic
market losses, the collapse of the world's largest insurance company, and many
bankruptcies and mergers. Every day seems to bring another piece of economic
uncertainty.
A recent survey found that over three in four Americans are stressed about the
economy ad their personal finances. Half are worried about providing for their
family's basic needs. Over half of respondents reported feeling angry and
irritable. Some reported lying awake at night worried about this. The report
concludes that, "The declining state of the nation's economy is taking a
physical and emotional toll on people nationwide." ("Eight Out of Ten Americans
Stressed Because of Economy," by Madison Park, from CNN.com, October 7, 2008)
Our nation is experiencing what many describe 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 tells us "you deserve it now," whether or not we can afford it
or really even need it. All of us struggle with these issues at one time or
another. They are important issues that we cannot ignore. This is why, over the
next 5 weeks, we have the opportunity to study about and experience the
worship theme called Enough: Discovering Joy Through
Simplicity and Generosity. During this time we will explore what
the Bible teaches us about financial management through corporate worship and
small group study (Studies are held on Wednesday and Thursday evenings in Room 2
at 7 p.m.- through the bridge doors then turn left.) We will hear expert advice
and stories about what others have learned by working through financial
challenges. Each week we will provide you with some practical tools you can use
to assess your financial situation and develop a financial plan with a biblical
foundation.
At the conclusion of the emphasis, the members of Glenwood will be invited to
make personal commitments of our offerings to God through our church in the
coming year so that we might be God's transforming agent in our community and
world.
In the coming weeks as we look at how we can manage our financial resources and
truly experience simplicity, generosity, and joy, I hope you will choose to be
present.
Schedule of
Events:
October 4 Small group
study begins this week
October 11 When Dreams
Become Nightmares
October 18 Wisdom and
Finance
October 25 Cultivating
Contentment
November 1 Defined by
Generosity
Last week for small group study
November 22 Mission and Vision Sunday, potluck
following the 10:45 a.m. worship
