Vol II: #68 In All Things
In case you live under a rock- of any sort- you are probably aware of the financial and economic pressure mounting in the US and around the globe. Prices are rising and the value of assets like stocks are collapsing. Oil is expensive and the war in Ukraine continues- though Russia seems to be losing steam as Ukrainian forces make use of finest weaponry the West has to offer. And, like a hero or an idiot, I find myself drawn to the turmoil. It’s the chaos that births the most interest and useful opportunities.
For example, I wish I had $20,000 to invest into crypto. “But Nik, didn’t the crypto market just collapse?” Yes. Exactly. It’s a perfect time to buy. “But Nik, will they price of crypto ever rise again?” Yes. They will. The underlying technologies of crypto- blockchain and Web 3.0- are here to stay. Despite this severe downturn, the technology will carry on, though with less fanfare. (I genuinely believe the crypto collapse is good for the long-term health of the market. Governments will now step in to add much need regulation of such markets. Provided the regulation is added soon, we will not see another massive failure.)
My broader point is that crisis is nothing more than opportunity in waiting. Some changes and leaps are easier to take when our backs are up against the wall. I want to be able to take advantage of what each crisis/opportunity provides. Of course, I don’t need a crisis to be to make the most of moment. Each season and stage of life has hidden and not-so-hidden gems to mine. (To arrive at this conclusion does not make me wise or a sage, the ancient Chinese General Sun Tzu wrote similar remarks almost 3000 years ago. )
The hardest part of mastering turmoil and chaos is keeping our heads. And, these are the moments when the words of Paul reign above all else:
Not that I speak from want, for I have learned to be content in whatever circumstances I am. I know how to get along with humble means, and I also know how to live in prosperity; in any and every circumstance I have learned the secret of being filled and going hungry, both of having abundance and suffering need. I can do all things through Him who strengthens me. Philippians 4:11-13
I spent the last eight months being tested emotionally, financially, physically, mentally, and spiritually. Nearly everyday gave me a choice on how to respond to a different challenge- when I felt attacked by a leader, when investments didn’t pay out, I got poison oak three times and COVID twice, personal failures, and learning to love the Body of Christ. It was during my second bout with COVID I decided I was doing to love the Lord and worship Him, regardless of the outcome. Even more than this, I decided I was going to choose faith and hope over anger or fear. (Anger makes us feel powerful and in control, but it is never satisfied.)
The key to having joy and hope in the worst circumstances is in how much we trust Jesus. This is what Paul meant. Jesus was Paul’s provider and protector, and the Rock I on which I will build my life. No market collapse or war or death or health problem is going to keep me from worshipping Him or receiving His joy and love. And from this perch, He will give me power to rebuke the storms(fear) and vision to find the other side of the sea.
