This economy only gets worse with every day.  The number of unemployed, while it appears stable, does not include the long term unemployed (those without a job for longer than a year), so while many families may have one person with a job, there are thousands of families deeply affected.  I personally know of many families that have lost a job, and I’m sure you do too!  So how do we survive in a bad economy?

God is in Control

Remember that God is ultimately in control in bad economic situations.  We need to remain fully surrendered to His will.  When we are in the center of His plan for us, we are safe.  It may not be easy, but it where we can receive His blessing.

Get Creative

Is there a hobby you have that your friends often compliment you on?  How about getting paid to do that?  It can be as simple as enjoying scrapbooking and beginning to teach how to scrapbook as well as offer scrapbooking services to those who do not have time.  Do not be afraid to think outside the box.

Part – Time Jobs

Take on more than one part time job during a bad economy!  If you cannot find full time work, do not hesitate to take a part time job.  Some is better than none.  You can then seek to pick up another part time job to help provide the level of income you need.

Eliminate the Unnecessary

Go through your budget with a fine tooth comb and eliminate all unnecessary spending.  If you are dealing with a job loss, cut out the investing.  You need to survive!  Then cut out everything else you can do with – beauty treatments, sports outings, eating out, entertainment events, extra cell phone coverage (get just the basic minimum), etc.  Find free alternatives for your entertainment like free summer concerts, picnicking on the weekend with your family, exchanging babysitting so you and your spouse can have a quiet dinner at home, etc.

Surround Yourself with a Support Group

This is a very discouraging time.  You can get so depressed that you make yourself physically sick.  Rather, surround yourself with friends who are supportive and encouraging of you and your family.  Ask them to specifically pray for needs.  These should be people you trust.

Make your “God Time” a Priority

Make sure that you do not neglect your quiet time each day with the Heavenly Father.  We often miss what He is trying to tell us because we are so busy we will not sit still and listen.  If you struggle with this time, find an encouraging devotional book to help you get started.

Have Faith in God’s Plans

Finally, realize that the Father is allowing you to walk this road for a reason.  Maybe there is an area of your life that He is trying to change.  Maybe He knows you can handle this and is using it as a growth tool.  Maybe you need this life experience to minister to those He is calling you to reach.  But whatever you do, realize that all things work together for the good of them who love YHVH!  So take heart and be of good courage.