Markets and Meltdowns

Traders on NYSE floor 10/13/08

After the worst week in history for the DOW Jones average, the markets are rebounding quite aggressively today. Who knows whether they will sell off before the closing bell or continue higher. Some Wall Street watchers are calling today’s action an ’oversold bounce’ while others feel that a market bottom may have been put in this past Friday. Meanwhile President Bush and world finance ministers are trying to avert a further meltdown of the US and international banking systems.

As retirement accounts across the country ride the Wall Street rollercoaster, here are a few things to keep in mind as Christ-followers . . .

• Don’t tie your identity to this stuff;
• Resist fear and avoid making impulsive decisions right now;
• Keep focused on Kingdom principles in your living and your giving;
• Avoid stashing all of your investments in one pot (or stock!);
• Meditate on Matthew 6 and re-look at material life through Jesus’ eyes;
• Don’t obsess on the news to the neglect of spiritual priorities;
• Have faith — God does provide!

Through the activity of the Holy Spirit in us, peace can trump panic.