Biblical Answer

The Illusion of Security through Material Wealth

It's possible that your retirement savings disappeared due to a misplaced trust in material wealth as a source of security. As Christians, we are reminded that true security and stability come from God alone, not from our possessions or savings accounts. The Bible teaches that "the wealth of the rich is their fortified city; but to take wealth in their own hands is to be trapped by every passion" (Proverbs 18:11). This verse highlights the danger of putting our trust in material wealth, as it can lead to a false sense of security and a life consumed by greed and materialism.

The Empty Promise of Retirement Portfolios

The idea that retirement portfolios or savings accounts can guarantee true stability amid life's chaos is a lie. The Bible warns against trusting in "the arm of flesh" (Jeremiah 17:5), meaning relying on human strength and resources rather than God's sovereignty. Our trust should be in God, who is the only one who can provide true security and stability. As the psalmist writes, "The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me; your steadfast love, O God, endures forever. Do not forsake the work of your hands" (Psalm 138:8). This verse reminds us that our trust should be in God's plan and purposes, not in human-made financial plans or portfolios.

The Dangers of Worldly Pursuits

As Christians, we are susceptible to the lie that what we own has lasting value. We can easily fall into the trap of giving in to the temptations of worldly pursuits, such as accumulating wealth and material possessions. However, this pursuit of wealth and materialism can lead to a life of emptiness and foolishness. The Bible teaches that "the fool says in his heart, 'There is no God'" (Psalm 14:1), and that those who trust in their wealth will be left with nothing (Proverbs 23:5). As Christians, we must be mindful of our pursuit of wealth and material possessions, and instead, seek to store up treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:19-20). We must learn to see the foolishness and emptiness of such goals and instead, prioritize our relationship with God and live a life that reflects Christian values and teachings.