The Dangers of Settling for Security
Money represents security to many people. Is it possible that you are pursuing security at the expense of true prosperity?
In my profession, I have the opportunity to listen to a lot of people tell me what is important to them about money. Interestingly, the answer is rarely about acquiring more stuff. It most often circles back to a desire for security. People want the certainty that they will always have enough money to meet their needs. That may sound reasonable, responsible, and even honorable. It is those things to some degree, however, the pursuit of security can also be dangerously trivial, selfish, and limiting. Before you feel like I’m stepping on your toes, I’ll be the first to confess my battle with this, too. It’s a natural fight.
I’m not recommending frivolous spending in a live-for-the-moment lifestyle either. Spontaneous and carefree living may have its allures and benefits but can easily be dangerous too.
It is the prayerful pursuit of God-given goals that results in true prosperity. This takes coordination, planning and practiced discipline, but the result can be a fulfilled and contented life. The alternative is settling for “good enough” when God may have so much more for you!
Jonas Salk, developer of the first safe and effective polio vaccine, said, “Risks… always pay off. You learn what to do, or what not to do.” Successful business owners, innovators, and scientists take risks, not for the sake of risk itself but for greater rewards. They learn from mistakes and charge forward. The standard of living we enjoy in this country today is built on a foundation of risk-takers.
Here are some worthy goals that are often avoided while clinging to financial security:
· Generosity (Proverbs 11:25)
· Answering a call into something new (Genesis 12:1–2)
· Paying off debt (Proverbs 22:7)
· Investing for the future (Matthew 25:14–30)
· Starting a business (Luke 19:13)
Money is never certain no matter how much you have. Certainty comes only from trusting the Lord who owns it all. Psalm 24:1 tells us that “The earth is the Lord’s, and all it contains, the world, and those who dwell in it.” When we embrace this truth, the sense of risk is diminished and contentment and fulfillment are increased. It’s this freedom that comes from trusting God who owns it all that is beyond “good enough” for those that choose to risk their security for something better.
Don’t fall into the dangers of settling for security, but rather pursue all that God will do through you and for you…
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More Reading: Wisdom before Wealth Brings Success