Topical Bible: Security: False is Inconsiderate and Forgetful

◄ Security: False is Inconsiderate and Forgetful ►

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In the biblical context, the concept of false security is often portrayed as a misplaced trust in things that are ultimately unreliable or transient. This false sense of security is inconsiderate and forgetful of God's sovereignty and the eternal truths He has revealed. The Bible warns against placing confidence in worldly possessions, human strength, or other temporal assurances that can lead to spiritual complacency and neglect of one's relationship with God.

Inconsiderate Security

False security is inconsiderate because it disregards the wisdom and guidance of God. In the book of Proverbs, we are reminded, "Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding" (Proverbs 3:5). When individuals place their trust in their own understanding or in material wealth, they fail to consider the divine perspective and the ultimate authority of God over all things. This inconsideration can lead to a life that is not aligned with God's will, as seen in the parable of the rich fool in Luke 12:16-21. The rich man, secure in his abundant harvest, neglects to consider his spiritual state and the brevity of life, ultimately facing God's judgment unprepared.

Forgetful Security

False security is also forgetful, as it often involves a neglect of God's past faithfulness and promises. The Israelites, during their journey through the wilderness, frequently forgot the miraculous works of God and turned to false securities, such as the golden calf (Exodus 32:1-4). This forgetfulness led them away from the true source of their security and into idolatry. The prophet Hosea captures this sentiment, saying, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge" (Hosea 4:6). Forgetting God's deeds and His covenant results in a lack of spiritual knowledge and discernment, leaving individuals vulnerable to false assurances.

Warnings Against False Security

Scripture provides numerous warnings against the dangers of false security. In Jeremiah 17:5, the prophet declares, "Cursed is the man who trusts in mankind, who makes the flesh his strength and turns his heart from the LORD" . This verse highlights the futility of relying on human strength and wisdom, which can never substitute for the security found in God. Similarly, in Psalm 20:7, the psalmist contrasts false security with true reliance on God: "Some trust in chariots and others in horses, but we trust in the name of the LORD our God" .

The New Testament echoes these warnings, particularly in the teachings of Jesus. In Matthew 7:24-27, Jesus contrasts the wise man who builds his house on the rock with the foolish man who builds on sand. The latter represents those who place their security in anything other than Christ and His teachings, leading to inevitable collapse when trials come.

The Call to True Security

True security is found in a relationship with God, characterized by faith, obedience, and remembrance of His faithfulness. The apostle Paul, in his letter to the Philippians, encourages believers to find their security in Christ: "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength" (Philippians 4:13). This verse underscores the sufficiency of Christ as the foundation of true security, contrasting sharply with the insufficiency of worldly assurances.

In conclusion, the Bible consistently teaches that false security is inconsiderate and forgetful, leading individuals away from the true source of peace and stability. Believers are called to place their trust wholly in God, remembering His past faithfulness and relying on His promises for the future.

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Isaiah 47:7
And you said, I shall be a lady for ever: so that you did not lay these things to your heart, neither did remember the latter end of it.
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Library

Of Faith. The Definition of It. Its Peculiar Properties.
... This inconsiderate facility, though the surest precipice to ... and the neighbouring
districts, feared false gods and ... This is the security which quiets and calms ...
/.../calvin/the institutes of the christian religion/chapter 2 of faith the.htm

The Pilgrim's Progress
... to her journey.[33] But when Timorous was got home to her house, she sends for some
of her neighbours, to wit, Mrs. Bat's-eyes, Mrs. Inconsiderate, Mrs. Light ...
/.../bunyan/the works of john bunyan volumes 1-3/the pilgrims progress.htm