During the worldwide financial crisis of 2008, a widow lost a third of
her income when her bank stocks no longer paid dividends after her trusted bank
failed. The Wall Street Journal quoted her tearful response as
an example of the feelings of many people who were similarly affected: “You
just think, ‘This can’t be happening.’ What is secure anymore?”
Tragedy and hard times always jolt our thinking. Our best plans and
hopes can be shattered by events beyond our control. We are reminded that there
is only one source of true security in a changing world. With new appreciation,
we consider Paul’s words: “Command those who are rich in this present age not
to be haughty, nor to trust in uncertain riches but in the living God, who
gives us richly all things to enjoy. Let them do good, that they be rich in
good works, ready to give, willing to share, storing up for themselves a good
foundation for the time to come, that they may lay hold on eternal life” ( 1
Tim. 6:17-19).
When our resources diminish, we can grow richer in good works,
generosity, and sharing with others. If financial stability returns, we can
hold more loosely what we are given, trusting solely in God.
We are secure in Him alone.
In uncertain times, our security is in God alone. (RBC)