Success Is ObedienceShembull

In this crazy world, I often hear parents say they just want to create a home where their children feel safe and secure. If some of us had our way, we’d opt for a bubble where we could hide our little families away and protect them from the brokenness that is all around us. And that’s not a bad thing, I get it. But my friend, it is FAR from the best thing. 

Jonah disobeyed and ran away from God and toward security, which landed him in the belly of a large fish. 

Or like the story we read today, Lot’s wife disobeyed God’s plan and made the choice to look back at what she thought was security, which resulted in her instant transformation into a pile of salt. 

All over Scripture, we see examples of God’s people ignoring His direction for the sake of safety and security. Never did it end well for them. 

Listen, I really do want my kids to feel safe, but only because they trust Jesus.  I want my kids to feel stable, but only because they have experienced His “peace that passes all understanding” (Phil 4:7) during very unstable times. I want my kids to feel secure, but only because they know that mom and dad are walking with Jesus, and no matter where we go, He will take care of us. 

The pursuit of earthly security can sometimes lead us in a direction that is the opposite of where God wants us. True security can only be found living out God’s plan for your life.

Don’t rob yourself or your family of the blessings (and the incredible adventure) that God will give you when you focus on living in obedience rather than living in “security.” 

God, I want the life that You provide and nothing else! Help me to understand that in Your hands is the safest place to be. Forgive me for the times that I have gotten in the way of You being able to use me or my family, and help me to trust You. I love You! Amen.