The good attitude and example of Rwanda's president will help (and already is helping) to slowly change the nation of Rwanda. But is it just the job of politicians to do this? No! We as the church have the same responsibility. We're called to be salt and light. Salt and light make a difference wherever they're applied. Are Christians in the world making such a positive difference? Not much yet, but they can.
We can help change this poverty mentality, starting with ourselves. But first we must be convinced that God is the creator of wealth, and acknowledge Him in all our efforts. As followers of Jesus, we must follow his example, and preach good news to the poor, free those that are captive, heal those that are sick, and help release from oppression those that are oppressed.
Helping to reduce poverty is a very practical demonstration of God's love. Creating sustainable businesses, which includes increased agricultural productivity, is a powerful way for Rwanda to lose the shackles of poverty.
I believe one of the things God wants is to see an emerging generation of Christians start and run businesses that will serve God and their customer first, who will operate their businesses with attitudes of hard work (doing it unto the Lord), integrity and having faith for what could be.
Wayne Grudem, in his book 'Business for the Glory of God', says 'I believe the only long-term solution to world poverty is business. That is because businesses produce goods, and businesses produce jobs. And businesses continue producing goods year after year, and continue providing jobs and paying wages year after year. Therefore if we are ever going to see long-term solutions to world poverty, I believe it will come through starting and maintaining productive, profitable business.'
I'm trusting God to raise up Christians across the world (although I'm biased towards Africa) who will run businesses that will honor Him because they are helping to break the crushing oppression of poverty.
Perhaps God has given you a gift to do business, and is calling you to create jobs that help lift people out of poverty. Go on, be brave, and ask Him if this is what He wants for you. He wants to use you to be a blessing to your country whatever you do.
For more information about the work of Youth With a Mission visit www.ywam.org
