How Did It Get Like This?

The economy is scary to many people. How did it happen? How can we find relief? And for some there is not a noticeable difference in their lives. It goes back to the basics; biblical principles. What got us into this mess is your basic greed. Of course this is a sin. We could also call it the 'love of money.' Which the bible says is a root of all evil. Well, we can see that the greed of many people has spiraled things out of control. Our economy has affected our nation and the world, too.

Many people always assumed that their home value would continue to go up. So, they were talked into buying homes that they could not afford. The lenders did not care about the families that they were possibly putting into jeopardy. They apparantly only cared about the up front money that they were going to make on the deal. Then the lenders sold off the subprime loans to investors. It was all riding on the hope that the homes would go up in value and the home owners could then refinance with a regular fixed rate loan because now they had some equity for the downpayment.

This shows us that we as a nation have become too greedy. Trying to get things that we cannot afford. Easy credit has made it too easy upfront. But, then the other shoe falls and its time to pay up. Well it's time to go back to the basics, the bible, and learn how to live with wisdom. Those that have been doing that may be wondering what all the fuss is about. They are secure as they have been saving money, keeping to a budget, keeping out of debt, and living within their means.

Instant gratification is what many have come to expect. Well, now, many are hopefully seeing the light and making some changes. Yes, change is one way to say it. Another is 'repent.' Let's use sound principles that will not fail us. The stress and heartache of not knowing how you are going to pay for all the stuff that you 'needed' is just not worth it. I know for me it has made me just want to downsize and live simply. Sometimes you can and sometimes you have to just stay with it; paying off what you already purchased. It's not so bad to do that. We are still so blessed in comparison to most of the world. Let's be thankful and ask God for wisdom to use what we have so we can be a blessing to others.