THE SEAFARER by Conor McPherson responsibility as stewards of what he has given us. A recent article in the Huffington Post says young millennials not only “face daunting student loan debts and employment challenges post graduation, many still prioritize having the latest iPhone, tablet, or tech ‘necessity.’ Our western culture has skewed the concept of a ‘need’ versus a ‘want’.” It’s important to recognize the difference between an investment and a waste of money. While the pursuit of higher education or the purchase of a home might seem daunting, by no means am I saying avoid them at all costs. These are things that will likely have a positive return in the long run. But the latest smartphone? Or a brand new car? Not so much. If we are to overcome our debt and be wise stewards with what we’ve been given, we have to be honest with
“We have a tendency to forget that God actually wants to meet our needs.” are more likely to hire someone they know or have a personal connection with. And most professionals are more than willing to sit down and share their experience and insight. But it isn’t just who you know in your field. How often do we forget that we are connected with the God who created the universe? “Oh right, I forgot I know the Creator of the universe. No big deal.” And He’s pretty clear we should trust Him with these things. If you don’t believe me, read Matthew 6. There have been times where lost cheques have appeared miraculously, my bank account has had more money in it than I put in, and people in my life have graciously offered a helping hand. I’ve had cars break down, computers crash, and had no idea how I was going to get to where I needed to be. God has stepped in time and time again. He provides. Not always in the way we might think is best or expect, but in the midst of financial struggle, we must continue to trust Him. Yet t he realit y of God’s fait hf ul prov ision doesn’t exempt our
ourselves about our perspective; chances are high this is going to involve some countercultural sacrificing. While any survival guide to the recession is incomplete as every individual has a different story, if I’ve learned anything from being in my own boat, it’s this: find a balance. Rest in the knowledge that God is in control. He has proven Himself to be a trustworthy provider. As my friend and fellow writer Greg Harris points out, we have a tendency to forget that God actually wants to meet our needs. But this doesn’t forego our responsibility to be aware. Perhaps this means choosing a graduate school that isn’t going to force you to take out more student loans. Or maybe it’s working that job at Starbucks, or taking a budgeting class. Either way, if we’re going to survive at all, we have to admit that we cannot do this on our own. We need each other and our Creator. If you want to weather the storm of financial instability, trust God and don’t sail alone.
It was a dark and stormy Dublin night...
March 7-29 www.paciictheatre.org | 604.731.5518
Live the Theatre!
there are more creative ways to float this boat. First, those of you out there who constantly anticipate capsizing need to recognize you are not alone. There are plenty of people around you who are experiencing the same waves. You’re not the first one there, and you won’t be the last. While this might seem discouraging at first, it also means there are people who can offer advice or encouragement from a place of experience. So don’t be afraid to ask for help from the community around you. There is a reason God put us on this earth with other people. And speaking of community, expand yours. In my experience, my time job searching was most well spent by making connections in the field I wanted to work in. It wasn’t always with the intention of wanting to work for or with that person. But the reality is often that employers
Live Your Story rosebudschoolofthearts.com 1.403.677.2350 convergemagazine.com
| 27