Biblical Answer

The Reality of Retirement Planning

When considering retirement, it's essential to reevaluate our priorities and understand that true security lies not in material wealth but in our relationship with God. The Bible teaches us that our treasure should be in heaven, not on earth (Matthew 6:19-21). This means that our focus should be on investing in our spiritual well-being and the kingdom of God rather than solely on accumulating wealth. As Christians, we are called to be good stewards of our resources, using them to glorify God and advance His kingdom.

The Myth of Affordability

When we say, "I can't afford to retire now," what we often mean is that we can't afford to adjust our priorities and allocate our resources differently. We may be giving only 2 percent to God, and increasing that to 10 percent might require us to make some adjustments to our spending habits. However, this is not necessarily a bad thing. In fact, it's an opportunity to reevaluate our values and priorities. The Bible teaches us to "test all things; hold fast what is good" (1 Thessalonians 5:21). By increasing our giving, we may need to make some lifestyle changes, but these changes can ultimately lead to a more fulfilling and secure life.

Prioritizing God's Kingdom

Rather than focusing on material security, we should prioritize investing in God's kingdom. This means giving generously to support the spread of the Gospel and the work of the church. When we give to God, we are not just giving money; we are giving Him our time, talents, and resources. This is an act of worship and obedience, and it brings joy and fulfillment to our lives. As we prioritize God's kingdom, we will find that our true security and peace come from Him, not from our bank accounts or retirement funds. So, can you really afford to retire now? The answer is yes, but only if you are willing to prioritize God's kingdom and invest in your spiritual well-being.