There was an ancient Israeli king who was renowned for “taking his life in his hands continually”
It may surprise you to know that this king was David.
David was the second king of Israel, and his reign began around 1,000BC. Some people recognize him for writing the psalms, other recognize his passion to build God’s house, while others praised his great military campaigns. However, most people would not describe him as a man that took his life in his own hands (Ps 119:109, 1 Sam 19:5). All the great traits and exploits of David have led him to be one of the most well-known and influential people in human history. Countless statues, paintings and movies have been made in honor of him, and Jesus Christ himself was identified as the “son of David”.
Now you may be wondering why I am writing about an ancient king in a financial blog.
I’m glad you asked. David possessed a trait that many people lack today, and it is causing them to fall short of their goals, whether spiritual, financial, relational ect. David “took his life in his own hands”. To some this may not sound like a good thing. Whatever we think about the phrase, we must wrestle with the fact that David was greatly impactful for the kingdom of Israel and left a lasting impact on generations by “taking his life in his hands”. David is a good role model for anyone who wishes to advance their kingdom or leave a legacy. Let’s start with a few examples of what David did.
David took his life in his own hands to slay Goliath when all others feared.
David took his life in his own hands to study Torah when others came against him.
David took his life in his own hands to transfer his wealth to his son.
This list could go on and on, however, I think you get the point. When others put their life in the hands of their fear, or passivity, or desires for possession, David took his life in his hands and did what was right no matter what those around him said and regardless of how he felt.
The truth is many people miss out on their goals in life because they allow their lives to slip away into someone else’s hands, i.e. the hands of fear, anxiety, passivity, jealousy, prestige. When our life has been passed into another’s hands, we forget what our true purpose in life is, we forget to ask what we really want to do with our lives. This is not the way any of us want to live! If this is you, you must make a change! Here are three steps to “take your life in your hand”.
- Create a meaningful vision to big for your life.
If this vision can be accomplished on your own, then you are thinking to small. This vision should impact you first, then those around you, then those after you. You are here for more than you know.
I know many people may be thinking that one of the qualifications for goals according to the SMART acronym is “achievable”. This method has its place and time, but when thinking of those goals that are too big to attain, one should consider this verse,
“Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly than all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us,” (Ephesians 3:20 ESV).
If that is how big God’s plans are, surely you can afford to dream a little bit bigger.. Don’t be afraid, dream BIG.
- Recognize who’s hands your life is in
Is your life in the hands of fear? Is it in the hands of insecurities? How about low self-esteem? What about laziness? Pride? Jealousy? Truly take time to consider this. It is worth thinking about.
This step should HURT. It hurts to acknowledge what we have allowed to take control in our lives! But it is necessary to acknowledge so that we can move forward! All growth requires pain, but your eyes must stay fixed on the gains. Read that again. The growth that will come from this acknowledgement must be your focus!
- Take your life in your own hands.
This involves practical steps to implement those goals. Staying committed to a goal has a way of shifting your life back into your own hands. The character it takes to accomplish big goals is formed in you as you try.
As you are seeking to accomplish these goals, you may find you need help. Friends, family, pastors and mentors can be very helpful with certain personal goals. Other goals such as financial goals may require the help of a professional. Whether we like it or not, money can impact every aspect of our lives as a powerful tool to accomplish your goals, but if not careful it can become a distraction. Our professionals here at The Cornerstone Financial Group are dedicated to helping your finances align in a way that accomplishes all your big dreams and goals. We help you take your life back in your own hands.
We appreciate your feedback. Feel free to leave your thoughts or questions in the comments section, or email us at: cornerstone.service@oneascent.com
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