In Genesis, we learn that Isaac went through hard times too. There was a famine in the land (Gen. 26:1), and remember that Isaac was a stranger in that land. He didn’t own any property. But the Philistines around him panicked. They didn’t work their fields. What was the use? There was a famine in the land, but Isaac saw it as an opportunity and took advantage of their idle fields.
Genesis 26:12 says, “Then Isaac sowed in that land, and received in the same year an hundredfold: and the Lord blessed him.”
This happened during a drought! What was he doing sowing seed when they were in a drought? He was believing God! That’s what we should do.
Since there was a drought, others hadn’t planted, and food was in short supply. Isaac got premium prices for his crops. The next few verses go on to tell about how Isaac became so prosperous that Abimelech, the king of Gerar, came to him and asked him to leave because he was more prosperous than that whole nation.
“For he had possession of flocks, and possession of herds, and great store of servants: and the Philistines envied him…. And Abimelech said unto Isaac, Go from us; for thou art much mightier than we” (Gen. 26:14 and 16).
This is the news we as believers should be listening to. We have promises from the Lord that He will provide our needs according to His riches IN GLORY by Christ Jesus (Phil. 4:19). We aren’t limited to this world’s economy! Let those who only trust in money panic. In God we trust (Ps. 91:2, 118:8-9; Is. 12:2, 26:4; and Nah. 1:7). We should be rejoicing.
I’m not saying that you shouldn’t make adjustments. If you bought into this world’s philosophy of “get all you can and get it by mortgaging your future,” then come to your senses, and follow the principles of God’s Word. Even if you’ve been burned, you’ve learned a valuable lesson, and now you can go forward with a new focus on the Lord as your source.
Let me point out the obvious: This is not a time to cut back on your sowing. You will only reap what you sow (Gal. 6:7). This is a time to believe God as never before. This is our greatest hour. We can demonstrate to the world, as Isaac did, that there is a God in heaven who blesses His people even in the worst times.
You can’t help but come to the conclusion that faith in God’s grace works, and it will work for you too. I know this perspective will challenge you, but remember—as you think in your heart, that’s the way it’s going to be (Prov. 23:7). So, if recession comes knocking, open your door, and with a loud, faith-filled voice, say this: “No thanks—my family and I aren’t participating.”