Economic downturn and recessions are more common than most people realize. You are going to experience a handful of them in your lifetime. This is not just a third world problem. While a country like Nigeria is going through its worst economic downturn in four decades, we should note that since World War II, the USA has experienced 12 recessions. That works out to an average of one every six years. There will be good times, and there will be bad times. There will be times of economic growth and prosperity, which will be followed by a season of drought.
It is a spiritual matter. Something we are yet to completely understand. You cannot beat it into submission, you must learn how to manage your situation. The Book of Proverbs talks about how the ant prepares for winter (economic downturns) during summer (economic growth). With a little warning that “poverty is coming” (Proverbs 6:8-11). It is a good idea to live with the mind-set that “winter is coming”. It does not matter how long the good times last, another season will bring tests, trials and a downturn. The bright optimism of the day soon gives way for the dark pessimism of the night. You cannot avoid this.
There are some key learnings from the biblical story of how Joseph governed in Egypt and guided them through an economic downturn. You learn to be disciplined in any season of life – whether good times or bad. With a focus on your productivity at all times. You cannot stop the forces of the universe from switching the times and seasons. However, you can control your own productivity and discipline in any season of life. You go through your night/winter seasons with an understanding that joy comes in the morning. And during the day, you work to store up ahead of the unforeseen. So, keep building with the long-term in view. This night will not last forever, but you can emerge stronger than ever.
