"Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom that cannot be shaken, let us be thankful, and so worship God acceptably with reverence and awe." -- Hebrews 12:28 (NIV)
Shaken, not stirred. It's how James Bond, the fictional British Secret Service agent 007 likes his martinis. It may make for a good martini--I've never had one--but I'm thinking it's a not a very bold way to live.
There's no doubt the economy has shaken many, myself included. The businesses I lead and consult with are making significant belt-tightening adjustments to their operating plans. Households are doing the same. Case-in-point: when was the last time you had to wait to get a table at a restaurant?
The internal signs of the shake-up are just as apparent: Increased anxiety about getting or keeping a job, getting a contract, making payroll, paying taxes, paying bills, saving for college, rebuilding a depleted retirement account. And those are only the financially inspired shake-ups. Add health challenges, wayward children, broken relationships, ailing parents and the shake-up can look more like a melt-down.
While we may be shaken, it is crucial to remember that God shakes the heavens and earth purposefully, "so that what cannot be shaken may remain." Namely, His Kingdom (Hebrews 12:26-28, NIV). We are to be stirred by that which cannot be shaken. Stirred into thankfulness. Stirred into worship. And we are to be stirred into action. There is no recession for the people of God.
Elsewhere, the writer to Hebrews admonishes us to "consider how to stir up one another to love and good works" (Hebrews 10:24, RSV). That kind of stirring is better than any economic stimulus package, new contract, or job. It's better because it requires something better of me that gives me even more in return. It requires that I think intentionally about how to love better. How to do good works better. And how to inspire others who are shaken right now to also be stirred.
Preach the word brother.If this doesn't shake up some of those wild at heart type of guys shortof Garbiel the angle saying yes things should stir us up to be like you my brother say yes it has even hit you .Every one know you have faith in god and all that other holy ghost stuff but you are saying you are still stired up and look yiu just stirred me up.All I can say is glory , glory ,glory Hallaulajh thank you for your son my king jesus christ and leary.Blessing and strenght and honor to you larry
Thanks, Jesse, for sounding off and for your prayer!