International (MNN) ― As the American economy seems to be headed for meltdown, non-profit organizations, charities and faith-based groups have been forced to adapt quickly.
Across the board, donations are down, while demands on services will go up in 2009.
Many organizations are cutting back because the deep pockets may not have the funds to support their favorite groups. Donations from individual donors are unpredictable, and charitable foundations are likely to reduce their grants.
The three factors make a deadly combination for ministry growth.
Admittedly, the financial downturn is creating huge challenges for groups like Ron Hutchcraft Ministries. Despite being frugal, they are cutting back. But they're doing it without cutting into their evangelical mission.
Hutchcraft has no plans to "duck and cover." Instead, their teams will continue expanding in ministry to lost community leaders through the "Peaceful Living in a Stressful World" breakfast outreaches.
Small group training will also continue and expand, as will On Eagles' Wings programs. Hutchcraft is also moving ahead with a new Internet outreach to young people, "The Doug and Jon Show."
Hutchcraft acknowleges that the finances say, "Slow everything down." But this season of Gospel readiness says, "Work while it is day." Their teams are ready to "make the most of every opportunity" for spiritual rescue in these turbulent times.
Keep praying that God will provide for the ministry and that hearts will be open to the Gospel.
