Sobering situation in Greece.

Source: CIA World Factbook Since 2009, 25% of Greek businesses have ceased operation, "and half of all small businesses in the country say they are unable to meet payroll." In addition, "the suicide rate increased by 40 percent in the first half of 2011." On a recent visit to Greece a journalist observed, "It's not uncommon to see decently dressed Greeks discreetly rummaging through garbage bins for food. A new book about how the country survived the Nazi occupation--"Starvation Recipes"--has become a surprise hit." As Greek austerity measures increase, pensions and minimum wage decrease, tax rates rise, and personal budgets contract (New York Times, February 13, 2012). The EU pushes for greater control of Greek finances and many view this as a direct attack on Greek sovereignty. But are Greece's financial woes unique? Portugal has already experienced one EU bailout. Italy may follow suit. Many around the globe are coming to realize that the lavish "Western" lifestyles that so many have grown accustomed to in the last few decades are not guaranteed to last forever. Bible prophecy reveals that due to the rejection of God and His laws, the Israelite nations will experience a similar cycle of poverty and want in the not-too-distant future. Moses foretold, "A nation whom you have not known shall eat the fruit of your land and the produce of your labor, and you shall be only oppressed and crushed continually" (Deuteronomy 28:33). Jeremiah warned, "they shall eat up your harvest and your bread, which your sons and daughters should eat" (Jeremiah 5:17). Serious financial difficulties will spread beyond Southern Europe!