Sermon Outlines: How to Live Prosperously in Hard Times

Unemployment, foreclosure and bankruptcy are words many Americans use to describe their current financial situation. With national unemployment rates still above nine percent, job seekers are losing hope as their debt continues to mount. Jobless months, and in some cases years, have passed for thousands of men and women from all walks of life. Sounds pretty hopeless, right? Fortunately, living prosperously in hard times is possible.

God Wants Us to be Blessed and Prosper

Psalm 35:27 says, "Let them shout for joy and be glad, who favor my righteous cause; And let them say continually, 'Let the Lord be magnified, who has pleasure in the prosperity of His servant.'"

God wants to bless those who serve him so we can be a blessing to others. Broke, depressed, angry Christians are not able to help or bless anyone. If you are struggling financially, remind God that he promised to supply all of your needs (Philippians 4:19) and thank him for making you prosperous and successful (3 John 2).

Christians are Not Governed by the Current Economic System

In Psalm 27:1 David proclaims, "The Lord is my light and my salvation; Whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; Of whom shall I be afraid?" And in Psalm 27:5 David continues to proclaim God's provision and protection, "For in the time of trouble He shall hide me in His pavilion; In the secret place of His tabernacle He shall hide me; He shall set me high upon a rock."

Christians do not live under the influence or control of the current economic system. Yes, we are affected by it, but as believers we are ultimately governed by another system - the kingdom of God. God wants us to thrive, not merely survive - no matter what is happening around us. Do not let doubt and a lack of faith steal your financial security and blessings (John 17:13-22).

Do Not Limit God

Ephesians 3:20-21 says, "Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us, to Him be glory in the church by Christ Jesus to all generations, forever and ever. Amen."

God is not limited by our mortal thoughts and expectations. He is able to do exceedingly above anything we can imagine. The more you understand the love God has for his children, the more you will be able to rest in him. Is unemployment, bankruptcy or foreclosure knocking at your door? Don't give up. Be persistent! Turn your financial troubles over to God and he will supply your every need.

Scriptures: Psalm 35:27, Philippians 4:19, 3 John 2, Psalm 27:1-5, John 17:13-22, and Ephesians 3:20-21. See also James 1:17, Isaiah 55:1

Source: Ministrymaker Sermon Outlines