For years, many of us have had it easy. Financial security, travel, education, time with friends and family. Other generations or places in the world have faced widespread war, famine, and disease. Now we too are facing serious limitations to our freedom and comfort and standard of living.
I love how contemporary Isaiah’s words are:
Who among us can survive this firestorm?
Who of us can get out of this purge with our lives?
The answer’s simple:
Live right,
speak the truth,
despise exploitation,
refuse bribes,
reject violence,
avoid evil amusements.
This is how you raise your standard of living:
A safe and stable way to live.
A nourishing, satisfying way to live.
(Isaiah 33:11-30 The Message)
This is the first time I have seen “standard of living” described by the pursuit of good personal character qualities and actions.
It goes back to the familiar Serenity Prayer: knowing what we can control in a crisis. And it is our personal qualities and growth and love for others.
