When the Going Gets Tough—Churches Get Going

Aimee Herd : Apr 5, 2009
Audrey Barrick – Christian Post

"When times are tough, the Church can be at its best—being, doing and telling the good news of the Gospel."

A recent report by the Christian Post revealed the positive attitudes and adjustments some churches have made amid challenging times.

According to a recent LifeWay survey, requests for financial assistance have increased from those outside a congregation—and churches have stepped up their spending on behalf of those who need it.

Ed Stetzer, the director of LifeWay Research noted that many fellowships have approached the challenge with excitement; some implementing specific ministries for this purpose.

"…these difficult circumstances are motivating churches to mobilize people for the work of mercy ministries," said Stetzer in the CP report.

Rising to the occasion is not just the church staff and leadership, but also those who fill the pews. The February survey showed that giving had increased by an average of 4 percent in the last year. And, while 12 percent of the 1,000 churches surveyed, did see a 10 percent decline in tithes and offerings, about 26 percent recorded an increase of 10 percent or more in 2008.

LifeWay's Associate Director, Scott McConnell explained that while troubled times can sometimes cause people and churches to hold onto and protect what money they have… "Jesus Christ told His followers that giving out of your poverty is worth far more than giving out of your surplus. Pastors are living this truth. They are choosing 5-to-1 to give more out of their own pockets, rather than less, to ministry opportunities."