We tend to take security in people and places, while still believing our true security is in faith in Jesus Christ. Perhaps we need to ask ourselves each day if we trust in Him above all else. How is it with you today?
ETERNAL PERSPECTIVES by Sally Bair
True Security
Every animal is born with its own built-in security system. A turtle takes refuge by retracting its head and feet. A skunk lifts its tail and sprays a noxious odor. A bear displays its size and lethal claws. Elk grow long, deadly antlers and kick hard. A porcupine’s armor is its barbed quills. The bee stores up honey for the winter ahead. When we think about it, we can find defense mechanisms in all living things.
Humans also carry armor in some form or another. We defend ourselves by fighting, fleeing, or reasoning. We defend our homes with door and window locks and alarm systems. And we defend our families, our possessions, and ourselves with insurance policies.
Is insurance a scheme to make others rich? A way to prevent worry over loss, sickness, or death? A means to avoid future problems?
Thankfully, some widows can live off their husbands’ life insurance and retirement pensions. Others, widowed or not, end up surviving on government assistance or must depend on family members for their care. Still others are left homeless. Historically, the Church took care of the widows. If the Church was doing its job, the widows were well cared for. If not, they suffered. There were no insurance policies as we know them today.
How can we reconcile insurance policies with faith? Some Christians carry no insurance, relying entirely on God to keep them secure. And Scripture backs them up, with verses about trusting in God for all our needs. But does trusting God mean we don’t need any insurance? After all, insurance does mitigate adverse consequences for us.
Many Christians carry insurance, knowing the value of planning ahead and being concerned about the welfare of their families. We live in an imperfect world where anything can happen. Ask the family down the street whose house burned last week. Ask the driver whose vehicle was totaled and who ended up in the hospital.
Should we look for a happy medium, carrying just enough insurance to help us in an emergency but not enough to make us broke? Does carrying insurance mean we don’t trust God enough? Even the farmer stores up food for his animals, and parents put up fruits and vegetables for the season ahead.
The Bible speaks about the importance of preparing ahead. “Go to the ant, you sluggard! Consider her ways and be wise, which having no captain, overseer or ruler, provides her supplies in the summer, and gathers her food in the harvest.” (Proverbs 6:6-8)
Lord, thank You for the wisdom to make sensible decisions regarding the future for ourselves and our families. Help us choose wisely while trusting in Your security. In Jesus’ name, amen.
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