The sinking US dollar is the result of a lot of factors. However simple economics 101 tells us that you cannot spend more than you earn. For many years now the US govt. has consistenly spent into a deficit position. This kind of fiscal irresponsibility is also reflected in the way most corporations and personal households are run.
The little shiny plastic in your wallet is simply the symptom of a much greater problem; the ability to live within our means.
At the rate the US is going, they won't be able to fund a military large enough to fill the national guard, let alone fight any foreign battles. A strong economy is the backbone of a strong military, and a strong economy is the product of fiscal prudence along with the implementation of wise money principles. The Bible has a lot to say about how to manage our finances which we have neglected both personally and corporately.
What if anything can be done to repair the incredible damage already produced?
First of all, determine to live within your means individually. Then work towards a position of zero debt. This will require saying no to your fleshly desires often, but hey isn't that part of taking up the cross.
From a practical standpoint we must realize that everytime we purchase something made from another country we are in essence putting our neighbor out of work. Consider the impact your buying choices will have.
The financial catastrophe we are currently facing is really the fruit of a much larger and important problem. The breakdown of the family unit and the resulting moral collapse are really at the root of every problem we face be it financial, political, etc. If a country is only as strong as its fundanmental unit, what does that say about our current strength?
Why has the family unit eroded so quickly? There are several answers I'm sure and I don't suggest to have them all but let's look at a few.
Prosperity
The Israelite nation was warned that when they inherited the good land they should be on guard against becoming cold in their love and obedience of God. Similarly today, the love of money has caused countless hearts to grow cold.
Pride
Riches and Power are strong motivators to pride. Just like Nebuchadnezzar we have begun to think that our power, intellect, and strength have gotten us to the place we are now. The failure to give God the credit and glory for our blessings results in a proud attitude.
Apathy
The indifference to injustices both domestic and foreign are but a result of our coldness towards the gospel. We have become largely callous about the lost state of millions of our fellow citizens. This apathy is most evident in the miniscule amount of money spent on missions and evangelism compared with church programs that emphasize self improvement and entertainment.
Disobedience
This last one is probably the biggest reason for our woes. We have come to think of God's Word as optional for our lives. His moral standard and righteousness are not up for discussion. Yet everyday we hear of preachers giving a new spin to the doctrines of scripture, in favor of their own moral perversion. Marriage is no longer a sacred lifelong institution but can be annulled at a whim. Purity in thought, word, and deed is heard less and less in churches across the land. Life enhancement is now the flavor of choice, and yet our lives are becoming more empty by the day. True joy and happiness are but a notion for many christian families.
"Righteousness exalts a nation, but sin is a disgrace to any people."
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