VOTE?

VOTE? - We live in a country where we have the privilege of being able to vote for leaders in local and national government.  It is not an easy decision.  At times it may seem easier not to take on such a daunting responsibility, and simply not vote.  Though there is worldwide focus on the upcoming elections in the United States, we also have elections a few days later in New Zealand that will help determine the combination of political parties to form the next government.  Voting is a right we are afforded in Aotearoa.

When voting for a government as a Christian I am looking for leaders of character, integrity, humility, competence and generosity.  I am a Christian in an increasingly secular country.  It is a difficult decision that requires sincere prayer and commitment.

I pray everyday for our country.  My prayer is that every New Zealander can have the opportunity to receive Jesus Christ as the leader and controller of their life.  I also pray that God will give me the wisdom to vote responsibly in a time when our country needs God more than ever before.

Credit Crunch

CREDIT CRUNCH.  It is easier to get into debt than it is to get out.  In recent times credit has been recklessly available to most people despite their ability to pay back.  Greed has dug a hole in people’s pockets that has placed them in deep pits of debt.  Some of this turmoil has resulted in innocent people being financially jeopardized.  With the current worldwide financial upheaval impacting all of us, it can  become tempting to move away from God’s plan.

What can we do?  Let us keep God first in our finances: (i) by carefully planning our spending and saving.  (ii) Let’s keep giving because generosity protects us from greed.  (iii) Let us also faithfully repay our debts no matter how painful the process maybe.  (iv) Let me also say, don’t get caught up in the fast money trap and start looking at ‘too-good-to-be-true’ schemes or gambling.  Let us honour God with our finances.

Yes we are in a difficult time.  So even more than ever let us trust God to – as always - come through, even though it may not be in the way we would always hope for.  Let us support each other and our communities with wise financial advice and support.