Misplaced Trust?

Misplaced Trust?

Bev and I have an ongoing difference about the importance of securing our home. She is careful to lock doors. It makes her feel secure.  The reality is that our home, like most, could easily be entered in spite of the locked doors. But, setting those locks make her feel safe, so we do it. I find security in planning, anticipating what is on the calendar and making preparations for the upcoming day’s events. Nothing kicks up anxiety in me more than feeling ‘out of control.’  Yet, rationally I know that I cannot secure myself with planning anymore than Bev can secure our house with locks. I have only to look back over the last three years in my own experience to realize how quickly plans are obliterated by unforeseen developments. Even more than door locks and planning, we all tend to trust our money. Ask almost any American what they think would make them feel better about the future and the subject of money will be top of the list!

Under the inspiration of the Spirit, Paul wrote to young Timothy: "Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment." (1 Timothy 6:17, NLT) Think about that directive. Have you a misplaced trust? Learning to use money and love the Lord brings great freedom. The Word goes on to instruct: "Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life." (1 Timothy 6:18-19, NLT)

Disciple, prayerfully think about where you seek security.
Is your trust misplaced?
Do roller-coaster values of Wall Street keep you from rest?
Are you trusting in things which can never provide lasting security? 

Here’s a word from the Word. It is a comfort and a challenge at the same time. "You say, “We’ve taken out good life insurance. We’ve hedged all our bets, covered all our bases. No disaster can touch us. We’ve thought of everything. We’re advised by the experts. We’re set.” But the Master, God, has something to say to this: “Watch closely. I’m laying a foundation in Zion, a solid granite foundation, squared and true. And this is the meaning of the stone: a trusting life won’t topple." (Isaiah 28:15-16, The Message) Jesus is that foundation! "Christ Jesus himself as the chief cornerstone. In him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord." (Ephesians 2:20-21, NIV)

My hope is built on

Nothing less,

Than Jesus’ blood

And righteousness.

I dare not trust

The sweetest frame,

But wholly lean on

Jesus’ Name.

On Christ, the Solid Rock,

I stand,

All other ground is

Sinking sand!