There are catastrophic consequences of this present financial crisis.
These consequences affect the individual as well as the nation.
They arise as a result of deliberate spiritual neglect and take on physical manifestations.
We are hearing of suicides and other forms of serious self-harm.
Leadership in our nation has never been more important.
As I watched Prime Minister Gordon Brown being interviewed on television the other night, I said, as I looked at his face, "You do not really believe what you are saying".
Our face reveals a lot.
I looked for an appropriate category on Debt and Finance but could find none and had to return to leadership and in a sense that is right because the demanding essential of the hour is leadership - leadership that will rescue men and circumstances and businesses and crumbling economies.
Debt, more and more debt, until we are in a sea of debt! Individuals, and governments, are incurring debts, which take years to repay.
This results from greed and corruption and sheer mismanagement.
Some thought they would get off with certain behaviour and never be found out, but God has said in His Word - Behold your sins will find you out.
It is not just just your sins that are found out but you are found out.
It is a most unwise man who thinks for a moment that he can escape from what our Almighty God has said and that applies to every area of life.
Debts cause serious arguments, distress and upheaval.
We are facing a most dire situation what can we do?There are many practical solutions if only someone in authoritative leadership would have the boldness and courage to speak out and act.
Irresistible offers, special terms, and desperate days, tempt many.
A man can avoid debt by saying clearly and specifically, "I am not buying that.
I can't afford it.
We can't afford it".
It is possible to resist the temptation to buy articles which you know are beyond your means.
God has simple practical positive advice to say about debt.
"Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another".
This is a decision which an individual has to make.
Sometimes the decision is not easy, but it will normally be a wise decision.
Refuse to get into debt.
Decide you are not getting into debt.
It is also possible to avoid the scheming and wheeling and dealing in which many who call themselves financiers have become involved.
Is the current situation rescuable?I am not sure.
What we are currently experiencing is the result of sin and there is only one remedy for sin and I am not sure if many wish to take the only available remedy.
It begins with Repentance and coming to God with sincerity and integrity of heart.
This has nothing whatsoever to do with emotion.
It is a decision an individual makes.
If you enter into a contract, that is all right, but keep up with the payments and never take on more than you can safely repay.
Discover what God teaches regarding debt.
It will save you from months of anxiety, heartache and fear.
How many wish they had heard that one or two years ago? God speaks to us about this vital topic in the context of our behaviour, and relationships with those around us.
Attitude is important.
Pay your tithes and offerings to God, your taxes to the state, and whatever you might owe your neighbour, no matter who your neighbour might be.
These principles were first given to people who were disciples of Jesus Christ, but they remain so essential in 2008, and so practical.
This column might just prevent you from running up unnecessary bills.
The further man moves from the guidance God gives, the more catastrophic the consequences.
Is there a leader with vision, courage and boldness? Is there a group of leaders who can rise at this hour and correct what has gone so very wrong?It could be done comparatively quickly if approached in the right way! Sandy Shaw