10 Keys to True Security

"Set no vain hopes on robbery; if riches increase, do not set your heart on them." (Psalms 62:10)

In today's world, we tend to put our trust in all kinds of things: money, possessions, 401-Ks, our national military or economic might, and even in our families and friends. Yet, good and necessary though they all are, none of them -- in the end -- offer ultimate security and hope in our lives or in our world.

Instead, the Bible teaches a variety of principles to find, offer, and gain true security and hope. Here are a few of those:

1. Learn to value eternal rewards over temporal riches  (Matthew 6:20 & 33)

2. Work hard with a servant spirit  (Exodus 34:21; Matthew 20:26)

3. Worship faithfully, giving your “first fruits / tithe” (your first 10%, rather than your left-overs) to God’s work through His church  (Exodus 34:26; Leviticus 27:30; Malachi 3:10)

4. As God blesses you, learn to give sacrificial “offerings” (anything in addition to and above the tithe) to other worthy causes (Mark 12:44; Luke 21:4)

5. Save consistently (try to save at least 10% each pay period)  (Proverbs 21:5, 20)

6. Avoid / get out of debt by spending less than you earn – pay off your credit cards, and do not carry a balance (Romans 13:8; Proverbs 22:7)

7. Remember that you are a Steward of what you have (not an Owner), and practice consulting your heavenly Father’s will on every financial decision (Psalm 24:1)

8. Learn to be content with what you have, finding peace in God’s promises and presence, rather than in the need for more “stuff” (Hebrews 13:5-6)

9. Believe that God your Father will provide for your daily needs (Matthew 6:11; Philippians 4:19)

10. Be compassionate and generous with what you have, especially towards the poor and needy (Proverbs 11:25; Acts 20:35)

Always remember that God loves you and I do, too!