Many believers wrestle with the tension between trusting God and taking risks. Scripture doesn't offer a simple formula, but it provides numerous examples and principles to guide us in navigating this delicate balance. Understanding this balance is key to living a life of faith, marked by both bold action and unwavering trust in God's providence.
What Does the Bible Say About Taking Risks for God?
The Bible is full of stories of individuals who took significant risks, often defying conventional wisdom, driven by their faith. Consider Abraham's journey to an unknown land (Genesis 12), Moses' confrontation with Pharaoh (Exodus), or David's battle with Goliath (1 Samuel 17). These individuals weren't reckless; their actions were rooted in faith and obedience to God's calling. They understood that true trust involves stepping out in faith, even when the path ahead is unclear.
How Can I Know if a Risk is God's Will?
Discerning God's will is a lifelong journey, not a one-time event. It requires prayer, seeking wise counsel, and careful consideration of scripture. Here are some key steps:
-
Prayerful Seeking: Spend time in prayer, seeking God's guidance. Ask for clarity, wisdom, and discernment. Read scripture relevant to the decision at hand.
-
Seeking Wise Counsel: Confide in mature Christians who can offer godly advice and perspective. Don’t make major decisions in isolation.
-
Alignment with Scripture: Does the risk align with biblical principles and values? If it conflicts with clear scriptural teaching, it’s likely not God's will.
-
Peace and Assurance: After prayer and seeking counsel, do you have a sense of inner peace and assurance that this is the path God wants you to take? This isn’t about the absence of fear, but rather a quiet confidence that God is with you.
-
Consider the Potential Consequences: While it's important to trust in God's provision, it's also wise to carefully consider the potential consequences of the risk. Prudent planning, even amidst faith, is not contradictory.
Is It Wrong to Be Afraid When Taking a Leap of Faith?
Fear is a natural human emotion, and even people of strong faith can experience fear. The Bible doesn't promise the absence of fear, but rather God's presence in the midst of fear. The key is to not let fear paralyze you, but to acknowledge it, pray about it, and move forward in faith, trusting that God will equip you and see you through. Remember the words of Joshua 1:9: "Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.”
What if My Risk Doesn't Work Out as Planned?
Faith is not a guarantee of success in the world's terms. Sometimes, even when we act in faith, things don't go as planned. This doesn't mean God wasn't with us or that we failed in our trust. God often uses our failures and setbacks to refine us, strengthen our faith, and teach us valuable lessons. Remember that God's promises are ultimately about His character and faithfulness, not necessarily our earthly success or comfort.
Examples of Trusting God in Scripture (Beyond the Usual Ones):
- Joseph's story: (Genesis 37-50) His life was filled with unexpected twists and turns, yet through faith and trust in God's plan, he rose to a position of immense influence.
- Esther's courage: (Book of Esther) She risked her life to save her people, trusting in God's intervention.
- Paul's missionary journeys: (Acts) Filled with perils and hardships, Paul's unwavering faith propelled him to spread the gospel across the Roman Empire.
Conclusion: The Dance of Faith and Action
Trusting God and taking risks is a delicate dance. It's about balancing our faith with wisdom, prayer with action, and trust with prudent planning. It’s a journey of continuous learning, relying on God's guidance and trusting in His unwavering love and faithfulness, regardless of the outcome. Embrace the uncertainty, trust in God's sovereignty, and step forward in faith, knowing that He is with you every step of the way.
