In the second episode of this ‘Financial Crises’ season, Simon and Bex discuss what we can learn from instances in the Bible when individuals and/or the nation of Israel had to deal with severe challenges caused by the likes of famine, displacement and conflict.
Some key points of interest covered in this episode include the following:
- Simon and Bex start the episode by talking about Job as a striking example of an individual who endures a devastating personal and financial crisis but perseveres in his faith. Despite losing everything and being totally bewildered by the dramatic reversal in his fortunes, he continues to place his trust in God. [02:14]
- The challenge that confronts Joseph has personal elements but predominantly takes place in a wider context. By obediently interpreting Pharaoh’s dream and accepting responsibility for preparing for the predicted famine, Joseph brings God’s provision into what would otherwise have been a national disaster for Egypt. [04:23]
- The story of Ruth focuses once again on an individual’s predicament as she tries to eke out a living in a foreign country affected by famine. In this instance, God’s provision for Ruth comes through the generosity and protection of Boaz, who acts as a guardian-redeemer to her. [09:44]
- Simon points out that people can be affected in different ways by financial crises, the challenge then being that each of us needs to be open to supporting others in whatever way we can, even though we may be grappling with our own circumstances in that moment. [13:20]
- As described in chapters 5 and 6 of the book of the Bible bearing his name, Nehemiah has to deal with all kinds of issues of injustice, exploitation and opposition when he returns to Jerusalem to rebuild the ruined city. In a time of hardship, suffering and uncertainty, his single-minded commitment, integrity and compassion brought about many significant social improvements. [14:31]
- The prophet Elijah is a very interesting example of an individual who engages in a crisis at an individual level but also on a national scale, as described in 1 Kings chapters 17 and 18. He denounces King Ahab for his godlessness and proclaims that no rain will fall in the whole country as a result of the king’s attitude and behaviour. He also, though, brings hope and ongoing provision to a widow from Zarephath and her son, who are on the point of dying through lack of food. [18:18]
- In our next episode, Simon and Bex will be discussing Ponzi schemes and their role in various financial crises. [20:45]
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