Treasure and the Recession

John Burnett recently reported a story on the brewery business’ relative success during the recession.  The brewery business isn’t recession-proof, but certainly recession-resistant.  Certainly many celebrate good times with a beer [or eight] but don’t many turn to alcohol when times are tough as well?  The industry is slightly affected by the recession, but mostly from the trend of “trading down” or switching to less expensive brands.  People are also drinking at home rather than at the pub.

I wonder if the bible industry is recession proof?  What about tithing?  Is tithing down?  I imagine that it is for many churches given the unemployment numbers, but there might be an upside to this recession for the believer. I saw a bumper sticker a few days ago that said “Don’t let the car fool you.  My treasure is in…”  Heaven, right?  No – this bumper sticker said “the barn.”

Well that is exactly what Jesus was telling us not to do in Luke 12.  We are not to store up treasure for ourselves in barns, but focus on Him and His provision for us.  These troubled times remind us of our dependence upon our Savior.  They remind us that our treasure is in heaven.  And praise God, because if this was not the case, my treasure would be down 45%.