Faith, Perspective, and Stewardship in Volatile Times

In weeks like this, when the markets are sliding and headlines are filled with uncertainty, it’s easy for anxiety to creep in. We understand that. And we want to begin by acknowledging something important: your concerns are valid. You’re not overreacting—you're human.

But we also want to remind you that market volatility isn’t new—and it’s not the enemy. It’s part of the journey.

Scripture reminds us in Ecclesiastes 1:9,

“What has been will be again… there is nothing new under the sun.”

That applies just as much to the stock market as it does to every other season of life. From wars and recessions to pandemics and inflation, the markets have seen it all—and they have recovered every single time.

Market Perspective Worth Remembering

• Volatility is Normal. Since 1980, the average intra-year market drop has been 14%, but the market still finished positive 34 of the last 45 years. The ups and downs are part of the rhythm.

  
  

• Missing the Best Days Hurts. Trying to “get out” and “get back in” feels like control—but it’s actually risk. If you missed just the 10 best days since 2005, your return would have been cut in half. And many of those best days? They came right after the worst.

  
  

• Time Is Your Greatest Asset. Over any 20-year period since 1950, a diversified portfolio has never delivered a negative return. Staying the course isn’t just good advice—it’s proven strategy.

  
  

• Feelings Aren’t Forecasts. Historically, strong market recoveries often begin when consumer confidence is low. That means today’s emotions aren’t reliable indicators of tomorrow’s outcomes.

A Good Stewardship Strategy

Don’t chase headlines. Don’t make emotional decisions. And certainly don’t put your trust in the market—trust the Provider, not the provisions.

Many of us have experienced the Great Recession, COVID, and the 2022 inflationary bear market. Each time, the same truth emerged: discipline beats reaction. The people who stayed the course came out stronger.

As the psalmist wrote:

“God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble. Therefore we           will not fear…”  Psalm 46:1–2

Let’s keep trusting. Let’s stay steady. And let’s continue to steward wisely what God has entrusted to us—for His glory and for the good of those we serve.

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At BMA Financial, our desire is to assist you in becoming a better steward of God's resources. Please let us know how we can help you! Contact us today!

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Steve Crawley, PhD

BMA Financial

Executive Director