Introduction:   America is not invulnerable to financial disaster. Not only can the U.S. brook dry up, but a church brook can dry up. A family brook can dry up. A personal brook can dry up. What should be our attitude when we go through lean times?

I.          GOD CAN STILL PROVIDE (VV. 7-9)

A.        He Can Provide Grace In Times Of Weakness

B.        He Can Provide Goods In Times Of Poverty

C.        He Can Provide Glory In Times Of Opposition

II.        GODLINESS IS STILL PRIMARY

Matthew 6:33 “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.”

A.        We Still Need Faith In Lean Times

B.        We Still Need Faithfulness In Lean Times

C.        We Still Need Fruitfulness In Lean Times

III.       OUR GOAL IS STILL TO PROGRESS

Philippians 3:13-14 “Brethren, I count not myself to have apprehended: but this one thing I do, forgetting those things which are behind, and reaching forth unto those things which are before, 14 I press toward the mark for the prize of the high calling of God in Christ Jesus.”

A.        We Can Still Grow In Our Communion With God

B.        We Can Still Grow In Our Consecration

C.        We Can Still Grow In Our Compassion For Others

IV.       GRATITUDE IS STILL PROPER

1 Thessalonians 5:18 In everything give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. EVEN IN LEAN TIMES,

Conclusion:     We should thank God for past blessings. We should thank God for present benefits. We should thank God for promises.