Preparing for the Beast: Ep. 9: Kingdom Wealth in the Age of Surveillance: Faith, Freedom, Finances

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Welcome to the Diary of a Black Woman podcast, where we pray bold prayers,

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walk in bold faith, and expect a bold God to show up.

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I'm your host, Connie Morris, and we open every episode with the same unshakable

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confidence Jabez had in 1 Chronicles 4.10.

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Lord, bless me indeed, enlarge my territory.

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Let your hand be with me. Keep me from evil and keep me from causing pain.

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And the Bible says, God granted his request.

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So if you're here today, get ready, because we're praying big,

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believing big, and walking in everything God promised. Let's begin.

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Hello and welcome back to the Diary of a Black Woman podcast,

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where faith meets real life and biblical wisdom speaks into the times we're living in.

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I'm your host Connie Morris and today we're talking about something that touches

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every single one of us, money, stewardship, and where our true security really comes from.

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That brings us to our final episode, episode nine, the biblical principles of

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wealth and stewardship.

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You know, this episode is interesting because when the beast comes,

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it's going to attack our wealth and our financial freedom. But we know that

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we have a God that prepares us for everything.

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Everything. And so buckle up, put your seatbelt on, put your oxygen mask on,

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whatever you need to prepare for this final ride.

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I hope you have enjoyed this series as much as I have.

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You learn more the second time you study it and then you actually podcast it.

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And it seems like it sticks right in my gut where we are pretty much in a system

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of a casted system, but life Life is kind of going through, moving,

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and we're not paying attention.

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And I believe these episodes is helping us to pay attention.

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So when the system arrives, we don't slide into it by compromise,

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that we stand firm in what the Lord has already spoke to us.

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If you haven't listened to episode eight, re-listen to it because all of them are powerful.

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But that one just shared how God wants us to endure in faith.

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But as the world shifts towards a digital currency, cashless systems and increased

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financial control is easy to feel uncertain about the future.

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But while economic systems evolve, God's principles never changes.

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Long before blockchain, bank cards or online payments, scripture already gave

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us a blueprint for handling wealth without letting it handle us.

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So in this episode, we're grounding ourselves in biblical truth about provision.

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Contentment, and financial freedom.

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Because financial freedom in the kingdom of God doesn't mean having endless

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money. It means not being owned by it.

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It means trusting God as our source, honoring Him with what we have,

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and living with a generous, grounded, and unafraid heart.

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We're going to explore what it really means to trust God as our provider in

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uncertain times, to walk in contentment in a culture driven by comparison and consumption,

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and to practice stewardship that honors God, whether money is paper, plastic, or digital.

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Come on now. Keep our hearts free, even when financial systems feels controlling.

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The world says, secure the bag. The kingdom says, guard your heart.

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Because at the end of the day, wealth is not about accumulation.

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It's about alignment. Alignment with God's will, God's priorities,

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and God's purpose for our lives.

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So if you ever wonder how to stay spiritually grounded while the financial world

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keeps shifting, This episode is for you, so let's get into it.

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I want to cover how do you stay financially free in a world that's becoming

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financially controlling.

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Financial freedom is the freedom to choose how to use one's resources without

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being enslaved to money or materialism.

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This is a biblical principle that emphasizes the importance of contentment and

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trust in God rather than relying on wealth and financial systems.

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And the scripture comes to me, and I think Paul said it, that he learned to

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be content with and content without.

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It's kind of an attitude we have to have. And the way he was able to be content

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with much was God gave him much.

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And then when it came a point where he had to be content with less,

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he learned how to be content with less because God was there with him.

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Our trust in riches are not in material things. They are trust in God.

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And the most richest things that I'm finding out

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as I've gotten older, is that if you really can understand the Bible and spend

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time with God, He's going to show you things that you won't find in your everyday

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walk, you know, in your everyday life without Him.

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And, you know, even in your dreams and in your relationship with Him,

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He has made a promise in His Word that He'll never leave us or forsake us.

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And that means that even when things get tight, if you trust them now,

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then how won't you trust them later?

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And so financial freedom is not always about having a lot of money.

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It's about your trust in God's providing for you. Let's go into provision.

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The Bible teaches that God is our provider and that our trust should be in him,

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not in the world's economy, economic system.

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Philippians 4.19 says, And my God will meet all your needs according to the

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riches in glory in Christ Jesus.

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This underscores the reality that our true provision comes from God.

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Regardless of what global economic systems, objects, technologies.

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Are in place. Contentment, what does that mean?

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1 Timothy 6, 6-10, Paul describes that godliness with contentment is great gain.

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Christians are reminded that true wealth is not found in the accumulation of

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possessions, but in a relationship with God and spiritual fulfillment.

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So we see here Our financial freedom comes from one, what?

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Understanding that we must trust in God.

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Number two, our provisions come from who? It says in Philippians 4.19,

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it comes from God as our provider.

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And then contentment is that godliness with contentment is with great gain.

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So that's that word again. We got resolve, but we also have the word Satan has nothing on us.

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But this one is this contentment.

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That contentment, if you've ever been content with something,

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God wants us to be content with Him.

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That He, in our relationship with Him, will fulfill you to the full, to the overflow.

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That's John 10.10. But how do we get there?

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So how does this, how does Scripture, there's going to be a lot about Scriptures,

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about the Bible, so we can get a strong foundation.

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What the Word of God says about how He wants to provide and how we can honor Him during this time.

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But still, honor is important even when we're in a crisis, right?

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So Proverbs 3, 9 through 10 speaks on honoring God with our wealth.

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It reads, Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the first fruit of all your

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crops. Then your barns will be filled to the overflowing, and your vats will brim over with new wine.

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This passage speaks directly to stewardship and generosity, honoring God with wealth.

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In a world where artificial intelligence and cashless transactions dictate how

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we access goods and services.

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Christians must honor God by giving the first fruit of their wealth to Him,

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whether through tithing, offerings, or acts of generosity.

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Believers are called to recognize that God is the ultimate owner of all resources.

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Implications in a cashless society. In a cashless society, the means of giving

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may evolve through principles of honoring God with our wealth remain the same.

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Whether we're using digital wallets, cryptocurrency, or bank transfers,

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the way we handle money should reflect God's sovereignty over all we possess.

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In Matthew 6, 24, serving God, not money, is the next point.

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Matthew 6, 24 says, no one can serve two masters.

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Either you will love, either you will hate the one and love the other,

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or you will be devoted to one and despise the other.

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This teaches that our loyalty must not be divided between God and money.

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Serving God, not money. In today's world, as we become increasingly integrated

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into digital financial systems and surveillance economies,

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there is a constant temptation to prioritize money over all else,

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whether through cryptocurrency or state-backed digital currency.

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Christians are reminded that money is a tool, not a master. Our ultimate devotion

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should be to God and his kingdom and not the systems and

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of the world. How does this apply today? In an era where financial participation

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may be influenced by global systems.

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Christians must carefully assess whether

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their allegiance to these systems compromises their devotion to God.

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Financial freedom does not come from the worldly wealth, but from loyalty to

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Christ. Just a quick review.

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We see here that we need to understand the power of money in a spiritual sense.

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And it comes first by honoring God with our wealth.

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It also comes first by honoring God in our devotion to him and our trust in

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him, that our financial freedom doesn't come from serving money, but from what?

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Trusting God for the provision.

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And when we put that weight in, think about it's on a scale,

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money on a scale, like you see wads of $100 bills, your ultimate need.

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And then you have God on the other scale. And then you have to determine which

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one of those you're going to grab off.

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Yes, you can grab the cash because that's going to meet your immediate need.

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But will it meet your forever future need in a crisis?

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Or you can grab Jesus, right, off the scale and just hope.

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You grab him with your faith and then you trust in him to meet every need.

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The Bible says he'll meet every need.

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Temporary need is what the evil wants. So take the cash now and live now or

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take Jesus and live forever in a financial stable environment, right?

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And many times, as you know, if you walk with Christ long enough,

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You don't really need money. God has a way of giving you favor.

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Favor is someone that to push the button and says, oh, you no longer owe that.

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You know, favor is walking with him and you don't need, like it's like the doors

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open automatically. Everything's open automatically.

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And it's not based on cash. It's based on who you know.

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And in the world of riches, it's all based on, I don't think they even carry money sometimes.

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We used to be with a whole bunch of money in their pocket. That means that's all they have.

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I learned that when I was a police officer. That's all they had.

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They got all that money and that's it. They just showing it and flashing it.

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But the people who don't have a lot of money, who has a lot of money,

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but they keep their riches hidden and put it in investments and savings and

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let it draw interest. Because money don't draw interest in your pocket.

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Come on now. Money is drawing interest in the banks, right? Money is drawing

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interest in investments.

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And so that's pretty much the rule. If you want cash, get cash.

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But if you want God's love and his trust, he's going to provide for you in ways

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that you can't even ask or think.

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The wisdom that he would give you to resolve problems, the wisdom he would give

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you even to create financial wealth for you is so much powerful than just a temporary fix.

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So let's continue. How do we have stewardship in a controlled economic world?

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Reconciliation of stewardship with technological realities.

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How do we have stewardship in a controlled economic world?

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We must understand first that God is the ruler of the world.

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The second thing is, are you connected with God or are you connected with the systems of the world?

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So stewardship means managing the resources God has entrusted to us in a way that honors him.

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The rise of the artificial intelligence-driven financial system.

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Cashless transactions, and surveillance

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economies present a challenge to traditional ideas of stewardship.

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Transparency and control in a cashless society, every transaction is tracked.

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As a result, there may be loss of anonymity and privacy and concerns about data privacy may arise.

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For Christians, this necessitates careful stewardship of both financial resources

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and personal information,

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ensuring that we do not compromise our integrity or faith by engaging with systems

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that may encourage the idolatry of wealth or compel participation in unbiblical ideologies.

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So we see here, how do we reconcile the reconciliation of stewardship with technological realities.

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We entrust God. We're talking about God here, that we honor him.

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Even in a castless society, we still follow the same stewardship principles.

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Second part of that is that you want to use wisdom regarding your privacy.

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And not be drawn into wealth through unbiblical ideologies.

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Number two, generosity and tithing in the digital age.

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Generosity in the Bible is about more than just giving money.

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It's about having a heart of compassion and a willingness to share with others.

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1 Timothy 6, 17 to 18 teaches that those who are rich should be generous.

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It reads, command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant

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nor put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain,

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but to put their hope in God, whose richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment.

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Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share.

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We see here first, generosity does not change.

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Tithing does not change in the digital age. And as the financial international

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systems evolve. Christian's

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are still called to give generously and support the work of the kingdom.

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While we may use digital methods for tithing or helping those in need,

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the heart of generosity remains the same.

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And then here, how do you maintain financial independence in a world of exclusion?

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As artificial intelligence and the social credit system evolve,

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Christians may face exclusion from certain economic opportunities or services for their faith.

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A cashless society could easily be manipulated to exclude those who refuse to

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comply with certain global systems,

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such as participating in a social credit score or using state-controlled digital currency.

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Financial independence in a world

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where access to financial systems can be restricted based on compliance.

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Christians are encouraged to maintain financial independence,

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not in the sense of relying solely on material wealth, but by maintaining a

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trust in God's provision, whether through small businesses, community sharing,

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alternative economies.

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Christians are called to seek ways to live out their faith without depending

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on a system that might force them to compromise their convictions.

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So we see the three points here, how to live financially free in a

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control economic world. Stewardship is still important. Faithfulness to God

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and not unbiblical ideologies.

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Being generous and still tithing even in the digital age.

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And also developing a way to be financially independent from the systems,

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like having your own business, having your own community sharing platform,

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and finding an alternate economy so that you can be able to be free in a way

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or not controlled by a system that's set in place by the beast system.

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So let's talk about navigating financial control with kingdom values.

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Remember, just because we're going through a crisis, we don't erase all the

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things we learn on how to be a good Christian, right? To walk in holiness.

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So the Bible teaches us that we have to maintain our spiritual freedom by how

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that our treasures should not be in earthly wealth, but in heavenly riches.

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Matthew 6, 19 through 21 says, do not store for yourself treasures on earth

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where moths and vermin destroy and where thieves break in and steal,

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but store up for yourself treasures

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in heaven for where your treasure is there, your heart will be also.

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And as a global financial system becomes increasingly controlled and surveil,

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we are reminded that our freedom is found in Christ, not in the systems of this world.

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Financial independence is not the ability to live without money,

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but the ability to trust in God's provision.

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Above all else. Number two, using technology ethically.

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Romans 12, 2 calls us not to be conformed to this world, but to be transformed

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by the renewing of our mind.

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Christians must approach technology, including financial technologies,

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with discernment informed by biblical principles.

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We should use technology ethically, ensuring that it serves God's purposes and

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kingdom values, not the world system of control and manipulation.

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Ethical stewardship involves not just using resources wisely,

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but also avoiding systems that perpetrate injustice or ungodly control.

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Christians should ask, does the technology we're gauging in aligns with biblical

00:19:26.393 --> 00:19:29.493
principles of freedom, justice, and integrity?

00:19:29.693 --> 00:19:37.373
Does it enhance our ability to serve God and others, or does it encourage idolatry, greed, or control?

00:19:37.793 --> 00:19:39.793
And living with a kingdom perspective.

00:19:40.233 --> 00:19:45.253
Colossians 3.1.2 reminds us that since then you have been raised with Christ.

00:19:45.493 --> 00:19:48.793
Set your hearts on things above where Christ is.

00:19:49.033 --> 00:19:54.553
Seated at the right hand of God, set your mind on things above and not on earthly things.

00:19:54.813 --> 00:19:58.193
True wealth is not measured by what we possess in this life,

00:19:58.353 --> 00:20:00.273
but by our faithfulness to God.

00:20:00.273 --> 00:20:06.593
As we navigate a world that may attempt to control us through economic systems,

00:20:06.853 --> 00:20:14.853
we must focus on eternal values, knowing that our citizenship is in God's kingdom, not in the world.

00:20:15.013 --> 00:20:21.913
Just a reminder of what we just covered, how do we navigate financial control with kingdom values?

00:20:22.133 --> 00:20:26.313
We maintain our spiritual freedom by not getting caught up

00:20:26.688 --> 00:20:32.648
and holding our treasures in what we call earthly wealth, but in heavenly riches.

00:20:32.948 --> 00:20:39.228
We must trust that God is the provider above all else. We must use technology ethically.

00:20:40.168 --> 00:20:45.648
So we must not lose our kingdom values and compromise it into the worldly system.

00:20:45.948 --> 00:20:52.028
We keep our kingdom values by renewing our mind and not conforming to this world.

00:20:52.188 --> 00:20:55.308
We keep our ethical stewardship. How?

00:20:55.873 --> 00:21:01.733
By avoiding systems that perpetrate injustice or ungodly control.

00:21:01.933 --> 00:21:08.433
So it's our responsibility to be alert, to be attentive on what's happening around us.

00:21:08.533 --> 00:21:13.813
And then we're told to live in what you call a kingdom perspective.

00:21:14.473 --> 00:21:17.273
That we keep our eyes and our heart.

00:21:17.453 --> 00:21:21.553
It says, set your heart on things above where Christ is seated.

00:21:21.553 --> 00:21:26.993
When you do that, you're not caught up in the world's way and understanding

00:21:26.993 --> 00:21:30.773
that true wealth is not measured by possessions in this life,

00:21:30.873 --> 00:21:33.613
but by our faithfulness to God.

00:21:33.793 --> 00:21:38.593
And who is measuring that? The world can't see that, but God sees it.

00:21:38.893 --> 00:21:44.473
How faithful are we to God? As we move toward a world where economic systems

00:21:44.473 --> 00:21:48.593
and financial control are increasingly shaped by artificial intelligence,

00:21:48.953 --> 00:21:51.773
digital currency, and surveillance technology.

00:21:52.253 --> 00:21:56.893
Christians are called to remain faithful to the biblical principles of wealth,

00:21:57.313 --> 00:21:58.533
stewardship, and freedom.

00:21:58.753 --> 00:22:03.953
We are reminded to keep our hearts set on things above, honor God with our will,

00:22:04.093 --> 00:22:07.913
and engage with technology in a way that reflects God's value.

00:22:07.913 --> 00:22:12.193
In times where financial exclusion may come, we are called to trust in God's

00:22:12.193 --> 00:22:16.513
provision, maintain financial independence from the world system,

00:22:16.693 --> 00:22:21.973
and continue to give generously to further the work of the kingdom of God.

00:22:22.173 --> 00:22:27.473
Let us live with eternal perspective, knowing that our true treasure lives eyes

00:22:27.473 --> 00:22:30.853
in Christ, and that nothing in this world can take away

00:22:31.126 --> 00:22:36.706
the freedom we have in him. So as the world increasingly moves towards surveillance-based

00:22:36.706 --> 00:22:42.606
systems and capitalist economies, Christians may face significant challenges.

00:22:43.066 --> 00:22:48.846
Technological control, economic exclusion, and the marginalization of faith-based

00:22:48.846 --> 00:22:51.466
values are becoming more pronounced.

00:22:51.646 --> 00:22:57.186
In such a world, building and maintaining strong support of Christian communities is essential.

00:22:57.446 --> 00:23:01.906
These communities will provide the strength, encouragement, and resources necessary

00:23:01.906 --> 00:23:05.726
for believers to endure in the face of spiritual oppression

00:23:05.712 --> 00:23:10.252
pressure, economic marginalization, and a potential persecution.

00:23:10.252 --> 00:23:16.632
This reality demands a closer examination of how we can build a resilient Christian

00:23:16.632 --> 00:23:20.772
communities following biblical examples of the early church,

00:23:20.872 --> 00:23:27.932
while also taking practical steps to support one another in our times of trial and difficulty.

00:23:28.192 --> 00:23:34.072
And so the question here is, how do we build a strong Christian communities?

00:23:34.312 --> 00:23:39.052
My church has what you call 242 groups where you get into your groups.

00:23:39.152 --> 00:23:41.812
Those are your groups. They're your neighbors.

00:23:42.112 --> 00:23:46.532
They're your friends from church, but they live closely to that area where the

00:23:46.532 --> 00:23:50.532
house is, where you go to a house for Bible study.

00:23:50.932 --> 00:23:55.432
And so that might be your team. So when things get rough, you look around,

00:23:55.552 --> 00:23:59.232
you know them personally because you spend a lot of time with them in Bible

00:23:59.232 --> 00:24:01.592
study away from church, right?

00:24:01.832 --> 00:24:04.832
Nothing that you're forced to do is something that's recommended.

00:24:05.092 --> 00:24:09.992
And so how do we build this strong Christian community? We need to do it now though.

00:24:10.352 --> 00:24:16.332
So in an age dominated by digital surveillance and economic control where faithful

00:24:16.332 --> 00:24:21.992
Christians may be excluded from participating in basic societal functions like

00:24:21.992 --> 00:24:23.992
buying, selling, or assessing healthcare,

00:24:24.312 --> 00:24:27.032
community becomes an essential lifeline.

00:24:27.192 --> 00:24:33.212
In a cached society, believers who refuse to comply with certain digital systems

00:24:33.212 --> 00:24:36.292
might find themselves economically marginalized,

00:24:36.632 --> 00:24:42.432
excuse me, unable to access basic services or participate in global transactions.

00:24:42.752 --> 00:24:46.652
The rise of persecution, both social and economic, requires that the church

00:24:46.652 --> 00:24:52.532
step up and act as supportive refuse, whether financially, emotionally, or spiritually.

00:24:53.032 --> 00:24:57.252
Christians will need each other's support to withstand the challenges posed

00:24:57.252 --> 00:25:03.432
by a world where loyalty to Christian might result in exclusion or persecution.

00:25:04.172 --> 00:25:07.552
So how do we mimic the early days?

00:25:07.567 --> 00:25:11.587
First of all, we go to the book of Acts.

00:25:12.927 --> 00:25:14.927
The Christians face severe persecution

00:25:14.927 --> 00:25:18.727
for their faith, yet they manage to thrive and spread the gospel.

00:25:19.047 --> 00:25:28.167
The Acts 2.42-47 model provides a powerful example of how believers can build

00:25:28.167 --> 00:25:32.427
strong and supportive communities, even in the face of societal pressure.

00:25:32.647 --> 00:25:38.667
I'm going to read the scripture Acts 2.42-47. And it reads, They devoted themselves

00:25:38.667 --> 00:25:43.647
to the apostles' teaching and to the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer.

00:25:43.787 --> 00:25:49.267
Everyone was filled with awe at the many followers and signs performed by the apostles.

00:25:49.507 --> 00:25:52.967
All the believers were together and had everything in common.

00:25:53.107 --> 00:25:56.927
They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.

00:25:57.167 --> 00:26:00.787
Every day they continued to meet together in the temple courts.

00:26:00.947 --> 00:26:05.847
They broke bread in their homes and ate together with glad and sincere hearts.

00:26:05.847 --> 00:26:09.627
Praising God and enjoying the favor of all the people.

00:26:09.807 --> 00:26:15.847
And the Lord added to their number daily those who So some of the key principles

00:26:15.847 --> 00:26:20.327
from the early church are devotion to teaching and fellowship.

00:26:20.627 --> 00:26:24.767
The early Christians placed priority on spiritual teaching and fellowship.

00:26:25.047 --> 00:26:28.487
Their unity and spirit were central to their strength.

00:26:28.747 --> 00:26:33.227
In today's world, where digital surveillance and social media can isolate us,

00:26:33.227 --> 00:26:38.347
Christian communities must maintain a strong relationship and accountability.

00:26:38.787 --> 00:26:43.327
And so we see here in the early church that that fellowship created that unity

00:26:43.327 --> 00:26:45.387
in the spirit, which is powerful.

00:26:45.747 --> 00:26:49.747
Share resources is point two, is Christians shared what they had,

00:26:50.047 --> 00:26:51.667
ensuring that no one was in need

00:26:52.030 --> 00:26:57.370
In the context of economic exclusion, this principle remains essential.

00:26:57.670 --> 00:27:03.590
Christians are called to one another, especially when economic systems exclude

00:27:03.590 --> 00:27:06.490
those who refuse to comply to worldly powers.

00:27:06.770 --> 00:27:14.390
We see here that it's important that we fellowship and we also share resources so no one will be in need.

00:27:14.770 --> 00:27:18.810
And number three, daily gathering and fellowship. The early church is met regularly

00:27:18.810 --> 00:27:21.010
for teaching, fellowship, and prayer.

00:27:21.010 --> 00:27:26.890
Even in an era where physical gatherings may become more challenged and regulated,

00:27:27.370 --> 00:27:31.690
Christians can still find ways to connect, encourage one another,

00:27:31.850 --> 00:27:36.370
and remain steadfast in faith. So meeting is important.

00:27:37.130 --> 00:27:43.730
Praising unity. Despite external opposition, the early Christians remain unified and joyful.

00:27:43.730 --> 00:27:50.030
Even in the face of persecution, the church today must also foster an atmosphere

00:27:50.030 --> 00:27:55.210
of hope, praise, and resilience, knowing that we serve a sovereign God.

00:27:55.450 --> 00:27:58.450
So what are some of the key principles from the early church?

00:27:58.630 --> 00:28:03.830
That devotion to teaching and fellowship, shared resources, daily gathering

00:28:03.830 --> 00:28:09.010
and fellowship, and praise and unity, that bond is what's going to protect you

00:28:09.010 --> 00:28:10.830
when it comes time to endure.

00:28:10.830 --> 00:28:15.810
So you're not enduring as one individual, you're going to be enduring with a group.

00:28:16.010 --> 00:28:21.310
And that makes it a stronger bond. It's a stronger bond when you know that you

00:28:21.310 --> 00:28:24.810
can trust your fellow neighbor, right? That that person won't.

00:28:25.140 --> 00:28:31.160
You know, shout you out to the government who wants everybody that has a mark,

00:28:31.200 --> 00:28:33.600
but you have a group of people that's supportive to you.

00:28:33.780 --> 00:28:36.760
You don't have to worry about resources because you're sharing resources.

00:28:37.240 --> 00:28:41.300
Spiritually emotional, right? You're sharing all that, physical resources.

00:28:41.560 --> 00:28:43.840
And so that does make a stronger bond.

00:28:44.120 --> 00:28:50.120
And so how do we endure in an economic system when the surveillance technologies

00:28:50.120 --> 00:28:53.760
begin to tighten and persecution becomes real.

00:28:54.020 --> 00:28:57.720
We just covered this, but I want to just reemphasize this. It says,

00:28:57.880 --> 00:28:59.960
Christians will face a new form of exclusion.

00:29:00.200 --> 00:29:04.960
Local churches and Christian organizations must adapt to these changing times

00:29:04.960 --> 00:29:10.300
by creating communities that support believers through these challenges.

00:29:10.620 --> 00:29:13.480
And so how do we do that as a church body.

00:29:13.600 --> 00:29:20.560
We saw what we do individually. What can the church do to develop these systems now?

00:29:20.800 --> 00:29:25.020
And so if you don't have a system set in place now, what do you do?

00:29:25.200 --> 00:29:28.760
How do you do it? So you can be prepared by one, once again.

00:29:29.160 --> 00:29:34.100
Build strong interconnected networks, establish local and global networks of

00:29:34.100 --> 00:29:40.120
believers who can provide mutual support during times of economic or social persecution.

00:29:40.120 --> 00:29:45.640
This includes financial assistance, job support, resource sharing for individuals

00:29:45.640 --> 00:29:48.700
who face exclusion due to their faith.

00:29:48.940 --> 00:29:54.700
So you lose your job, you can go to these resources to help you find another way, another solution.

00:29:54.947 --> 00:29:59.987
A form of income, another income. Foster digital and physical fellowship.

00:30:00.307 --> 00:30:04.347
In an area where physical means may be limited due to surveillance or health

00:30:04.347 --> 00:30:09.007
protocols, churches can provide digital spaces for fellowship.

00:30:09.587 --> 00:30:14.887
Prayer, and teaching while remaining committed to in-service gathering when possible.

00:30:15.207 --> 00:30:21.107
Utilizing secure communication platforms and encrypted channels for church activities

00:30:21.107 --> 00:30:26.267
may be necessary to provide the privacy and safety of believers.

00:30:26.587 --> 00:30:30.707
So this is talking about if the church needs to go underground, it can.

00:30:30.927 --> 00:30:34.687
You have one, which is an in-person service, which we have a lot of now.

00:30:35.027 --> 00:30:39.227
Then we have what you call our 240 groups, 242 groups, which are individual

00:30:39.227 --> 00:30:41.447
where people go to home to worship.

00:30:41.667 --> 00:30:46.527
But then there's preparing in a way that you have secure mentorship,

00:30:46.807 --> 00:30:48.547
secure communication platforms.

00:30:49.087 --> 00:30:55.247
If you want to have your service, maybe you keep it rotating where every time it's not predictable.

00:30:55.467 --> 00:30:58.307
The only person know that's going to be on platform or in person,

00:30:58.547 --> 00:31:02.207
you're sharing that information and then you're on encrypted channels.

00:31:02.527 --> 00:31:04.247
So no one's monitoring you.

00:31:04.759 --> 00:31:09.239
Or they have to go through a whole, a lot of trouble to get to you.

00:31:09.399 --> 00:31:14.199
So that's powerful in itself to prepare for a plan B in case you can't meet

00:31:14.199 --> 00:31:18.779
in person, but you still get the word across. You can still support your congregation

00:31:18.779 --> 00:31:23.399
and create a culture of generosity because it's going to cost money, right?

00:31:23.619 --> 00:31:27.719
So financial exclusion could come in significant challenge for Christians who

00:31:27.719 --> 00:31:30.959
choose not to comply with a global digital system.

00:31:31.399 --> 00:31:36.399
Churches should model generosity, encouraging believers to support each other,

00:31:36.779 --> 00:31:41.399
particularly those marginalized by society, whether through tithing,

00:31:41.619 --> 00:31:43.719
community fundraisers, or direct support.

00:31:43.939 --> 00:31:49.999
The church must act as a financial lifeline for those in need.

00:31:50.239 --> 00:31:51.479
That was self-explanatory.

00:31:51.999 --> 00:31:54.819
And then number four, prepare for persecution and resistance.

00:31:55.619 --> 00:32:00.679
Churches should teach and equip believers to endure persecution by focusing

00:32:00.679 --> 00:32:05.879
on the biblical principles of steadfastness and joy in suffering,

00:32:06.099 --> 00:32:07.879
according to James 1, 2-4.

00:32:08.119 --> 00:32:14.339
Equip believers to understand that their ultimate allegiance is to God, not to worldly systems.

00:32:14.639 --> 00:32:21.999
And five, strengthen resilience through discipleship. Building resilience requires deep discipleship.

00:32:22.359 --> 00:32:28.419
Churches should provide spiritual mentoring and training to address emotional,

00:32:28.679 --> 00:32:30.139
social, and financial pressures.

00:32:30.319 --> 00:32:34.819
This includes biblical training on ethics, spiritual practices,

00:32:34.839 --> 00:32:41.099
and community support to help those remain faithful in the face of persecution.

00:32:41.679 --> 00:32:45.079
So what can your church do to prepare for,

00:32:45.576 --> 00:32:51.416
the persecution and exclusion. We talked about building strong interconnected networks,

00:32:51.856 --> 00:32:58.976
both local and globally, that can support and assist the congregants in financial

00:32:58.976 --> 00:33:02.076
assistance, job support, and resource sharing.

00:33:02.356 --> 00:33:07.096
Number two, to foster digital and physical fellowship, be able to have in-person

00:33:07.096 --> 00:33:11.156
services, but also plan to have digital services.

00:33:11.416 --> 00:33:13.756
Create a culture of generosity.

00:33:14.196 --> 00:33:17.936
Continue your tithing. Continue your giving. Prepare for persecution.

00:33:18.296 --> 00:33:22.656
Begin to teach on how to endure persecution. You know, it's kind of like a training

00:33:22.656 --> 00:33:26.136
ground. Church is a training ground. How do I endure persecution?

00:33:26.436 --> 00:33:32.556
How do I endure the principles of steadfastness and the joy and suffering according to the Word of God?

00:33:32.676 --> 00:33:38.956
How do I just make sure that my church group has It's an ultimate allegiance

00:33:38.956 --> 00:33:41.936
to God and not this worldly system.

00:33:42.376 --> 00:33:46.416
And then finally, how do we stay strengthened through discipleship?

00:33:46.596 --> 00:33:51.416
I mean, we're already learning. It's a continual learning about ethics,

00:33:51.656 --> 00:33:54.016
spiritual practice, and community support.

00:33:54.196 --> 00:33:58.776
I mean, you don't wait until you're in a crisis to create discipleship.

00:33:58.876 --> 00:34:03.756
You need to do it now. And then I believe the final point I want to cover here

00:34:03.756 --> 00:34:07.836
is how do we support one another in a world of growing pressure?

00:34:08.076 --> 00:34:11.236
We talked about one way is to have the 242 group.

00:34:11.416 --> 00:34:17.716
The second way is to have a solid church preparedness system in place.

00:34:17.856 --> 00:34:25.376
And then thirdly is supporting one another when it gets really hard. How do we do that, right?

00:34:25.616 --> 00:34:30.356
Everybody handles pressure differently. And so we need to know how to do that.

00:34:30.356 --> 00:34:35.736
So as Christians, the external pressures of a world moving towards global economic

00:34:35.736 --> 00:34:39.996
control and digital surveillance will increase. The church role is...

00:34:40.418 --> 00:34:45.838
In this age, it creates spaces of support where believers can not only survive,

00:34:46.258 --> 00:34:50.778
but thrive spiritually in a world that increasingly seeks to control and isolate them.

00:34:50.978 --> 00:34:55.938
You know, it's different in a world where you are striving to survive,

00:34:56.138 --> 00:35:02.138
but how about if you actually thrive both spiritually and economically in a

00:35:02.138 --> 00:35:03.658
world that's trying to close you out?

00:35:03.838 --> 00:35:06.378
And I have four points, and then we're going to close this out.

00:35:06.598 --> 00:35:12.258
Is mutual care and accountability. Galatians 6.2 urges us to carry each other's burden.

00:35:12.718 --> 00:35:18.638
Mutual care and accountability are foundational to maintaining strong Christian community.

00:35:19.578 --> 00:35:24.378
Amid external pressure, Christians should prioritize relationships within the

00:35:24.378 --> 00:35:30.698
body of Christ, especially those facing persecution or persecution for their faith.

00:35:31.018 --> 00:35:37.318
Number two, spiritual mentoring and strengthening. Proverbs 27.17 says, iron sharpens iron.

00:35:37.458 --> 00:35:39.558
So one person sharpens another.

00:35:39.858 --> 00:35:44.958
In times of trial, stronger believers must come alongside weaker ones to provide

00:35:44.958 --> 00:35:46.618
spiritual mentorship and

00:35:46.665 --> 00:35:51.845
and practical support. Spiritual leaders must also guide believers in navigating

00:35:51.845 --> 00:35:57.585
the pressures to conform to a worldly system that opposes God's will.

00:35:57.845 --> 00:36:02.225
Number three, embrace God's sovereignty. Isaiah 41 10 reminds us,

00:36:02.345 --> 00:36:04.525
so do not fear for I am with you.

00:36:04.685 --> 00:36:07.645
Do not be dismayed for I am your God.

00:36:07.845 --> 00:36:13.505
I will strengthen you and help you. I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.

00:36:13.725 --> 00:36:20.985
As global systems of control intensify, Christians must remain anchored in truth of God's sovereignty.

00:36:21.385 --> 00:36:26.105
The church is called to be a place of refuge where believers are reminded that

00:36:26.105 --> 00:36:32.485
God rules over all circumstances, even those brought about by oppressive systems.

00:36:32.865 --> 00:36:38.765
And number four, resist conformity. Romans 12.2 calls us not to be conformed

00:36:38.765 --> 00:36:42.545
to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of our mind.

00:36:42.665 --> 00:36:48.445
As Christians, we must resist the pressure to conform to the global systems of control.

00:36:48.665 --> 00:36:54.205
The church must empower believers to live distinctively from the world while

00:36:54.205 --> 00:36:56.985
standing firm in their commitment to Christ.

00:36:57.125 --> 00:37:01.205
And as we go over these points, you can see that these points are very,

00:37:01.365 --> 00:37:09.045
very strong and it requires a resolvedness to happen before the crisis begin.

00:37:09.045 --> 00:37:14.025
And the church role, continuing in this episode, continuing in this section,

00:37:14.285 --> 00:37:19.525
talks about having mutual care and accountability. So the church cannot abandon

00:37:19.525 --> 00:37:22.945
their flock when things get really hard.

00:37:23.185 --> 00:37:28.645
They must begin now to build these relationships within the body of Christ.

00:37:28.825 --> 00:37:31.405
We all want to endure to the end.

00:37:31.625 --> 00:37:35.785
If we, and right now the tests, sometimes the tests even now are hard.

00:37:36.225 --> 00:37:40.705
Can we endure through that test? I always, when I go through major tests in my life.

00:37:41.183 --> 00:37:45.623
It's hard. Don't get me wrong. But I wake up and if I'm breathing that mean,

00:37:45.623 --> 00:37:47.823
I'm still going to, this is going to be a win-win.

00:37:48.163 --> 00:37:53.143
You know, I'm winning because I've decided to not quit, right?

00:37:53.383 --> 00:37:59.403
Spiritual mentoring is always important, even now, not when things get into crisis.

00:37:59.743 --> 00:38:04.423
How are you being spiritually mentored or are you spiritually mentoring someone else?

00:38:04.703 --> 00:38:07.963
Because only as strong as the weakest link.

00:38:08.183 --> 00:38:13.563
And so we want to strengthen that weak link so that we all finish well together.

00:38:13.783 --> 00:38:18.123
And when we embrace God's sovereignty, remember God knows all things.

00:38:18.283 --> 00:38:23.143
And we must understand that if he tells us that he's going to provide and protect

00:38:23.143 --> 00:38:29.123
us, then we must know that the church should be a place of refuge and reminds

00:38:29.123 --> 00:38:30.943
us that God is in control.

00:38:31.123 --> 00:38:33.263
We need to remind ourselves with that.

00:38:33.583 --> 00:38:38.703
Romans 12, 2, resist conformity. This has been the theme throughout the whole.

00:38:39.392 --> 00:38:45.392
Series is that do not be conformed to this world, but be transferred by the renewing of your mind.

00:38:45.552 --> 00:38:47.652
How do you renew your mind?

00:38:47.872 --> 00:38:53.632
You must take time out to renew your mind with the word of God.

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And as we conclude this session, this final episode, I want to leave you with this.

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In a world that's increasingly shaped by surveillance, economic control,

00:39:03.672 --> 00:39:06.032
and persecution for faithfulness to Christ.

00:39:06.332 --> 00:39:11.312
Building strong Christian communities become essential. The early church example

00:39:11.312 --> 00:39:18.352
of Acts 2.42-47 serves as a powerful model for how believers can live in unity,

00:39:18.672 --> 00:39:20.772
support one another, and endure persecution.

00:39:21.072 --> 00:39:26.872
Churches and Christian organizations must be prepared to offer financial assistance,

00:39:27.212 --> 00:39:31.492
spiritual mentorship, and emotional support in times of marginalization and

00:39:31.492 --> 00:39:35.852
persecution by strengthening the body of Christ through discipleship,

00:39:36.072 --> 00:39:37.732
generosity, and accountability.

00:39:38.112 --> 00:39:43.092
Christians will be better equipped to navigate a world where their faith may

00:39:43.092 --> 00:39:48.832
result in economic exclusion. It's the responsibility of the church to get the

00:39:48.832 --> 00:39:51.712
Christians prepared. I call the Christians the sheep.

00:39:52.092 --> 00:39:56.052
Get them ready for what's to come. And as believers, let's remain faithful and

00:39:56.052 --> 00:40:02.152
resilient, knowing that God's sovereignty will sustain us through every challenge we face.

00:40:02.312 --> 00:40:05.092
Every challenge we face.

00:40:05.492 --> 00:40:10.672
Is your Christian community discussing ways to stay resilient in a surveilled world?

00:40:10.832 --> 00:40:17.492
So these are just practical steps that you can use to prepare you for what is to come. And.

00:40:18.138 --> 00:40:22.738
It's been a great episode. It's been different. It's been a lot longer,

00:40:22.958 --> 00:40:28.258
been a lot more teaching and mentally preparing you for what's to come and even

00:40:28.258 --> 00:40:33.798
giving you examples on how to be successful in the world to come.

00:40:33.978 --> 00:40:38.978
And I put this out here for me too so I can just listen to it at my leisure

00:40:38.978 --> 00:40:45.478
to understand what should we do as we prepare for the B system.

00:40:45.738 --> 00:40:49.238
And that about wraps up today's episode, of the Diary of Black Women podcast.

00:40:49.278 --> 00:40:50.798
I'm your host, Connie Morris.

00:40:51.018 --> 00:40:55.278
And family, remember this, money will change forms. Systems will shift.

00:40:55.538 --> 00:40:59.498
Economies will rise and fall. But God remains our source.

00:40:59.918 --> 00:41:04.938
Biblical stewardship isn't about fear of the future. It's about faithfulness in the present.

00:41:05.198 --> 00:41:11.778
When our hearts belong to God, our resources stay in the proper place. We don't serve money.

00:41:11.998 --> 00:41:13.938
We don't bow to systems.

00:41:14.198 --> 00:41:20.418
We serve, we steward what we have. trust who provides, and keep our freedom in Christ.

00:41:20.718 --> 00:41:24.718
This episode has encouraged you, helped you to reset your perspective,

00:41:24.998 --> 00:41:28.298
or gave you peace about finances at an uncertain time.

00:41:28.498 --> 00:41:31.638
Share it with someone who needs that same reminder.

00:41:31.878 --> 00:41:36.118
And make sure you subscribe so you don't miss what's coming next.

00:41:36.258 --> 00:41:42.258
Because we're continuing to live kingdom-minded in a world that keeps trying

00:41:42.258 --> 00:41:45.318
to pull us out, pull us the other way.

00:41:45.318 --> 00:41:51.298
Until next time, stay rooted, stay discerning, and keep walking in truth.

00:41:51.738 --> 00:41:57.798
This is your host, Connie Morris, and you have been listening to The Diary of a Black Woman podcast.

00:42:09.124 --> 00:42:13.644
Family, thank you for spending this time with me today. To every woman listening

00:42:13.644 --> 00:42:19.404
who has ever felt hidden, overlooked, or pushed aside, I want you to hear me clearly.

00:42:19.764 --> 00:42:22.604
God has not forgotten you, and neither have I.

00:42:22.804 --> 00:42:28.064
That's why I moved everything to our new home on PodPage, so you would have

00:42:28.064 --> 00:42:31.624
one place to connect with me, read the devotionals, listen to the podcast,

00:42:31.944 --> 00:42:33.864
and reach out whenever you need to.

00:42:33.864 --> 00:42:38.844
If you want to leave me a message, send an email, or simply find encouragement,

00:42:38.844 --> 00:42:42.544
it's all there at DiaryOfABlackWomanLLC.com.

00:42:42.624 --> 00:42:46.704
And if this podcast has blessed you and you want to support the work I'm doing,

00:42:46.964 --> 00:42:50.584
you'll find a Buy Me, a Ko-fi link on the site as well.

00:42:50.804 --> 00:42:54.964
No pressure, just love and community. Before we leave, I want to speak the word

00:42:54.964 --> 00:42:57.964
that I close with every time because somebody needs this reminder today.

00:42:58.144 --> 00:43:03.224
It comes from Jeremiah 29, 11, 14. For I know the plans I have for you,

00:43:03.364 --> 00:43:07.004
declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you,

00:43:07.164 --> 00:43:08.684
plans to give you hope and a future.

00:43:08.864 --> 00:43:13.044
Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.

00:43:13.184 --> 00:43:16.864
You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.

00:43:16.864 --> 00:43:20.504
I will be found by you, declares the Lord.

00:43:20.884 --> 00:43:25.404
Beloved, God has a plan for your life, a real one, a good one.

00:43:25.584 --> 00:43:29.904
And as long as you keep seeking him, you will find him even from the hidden

00:43:29.904 --> 00:43:33.484
places. I love you. I'm praying for you. And I'll meet you next time.