I remember the story a man shared with me years ago, about what he called God’s “answer to prayer”. While he was away on a trip, this man’s car had been seriously damaged in an airport parking lot. Unfortunately, the driver who did the damage didn’t leave a note, and the man whose car was hit didn’t have collision insurance. So he drove the damaged car around for several weeks.

Then one day, as he was sitting at a red light, he was rear-ended in a multiple-car collision. His car suffered minimal damage from this collision, but he decided to conveniently not mention the airport incident to the insurance companies. His car was repaired by the insurance company of the driver who rear-ended him. “What an answer from the Lord!” he exclaimed.

Here’s the problem. This “answer” from God is contrary to what His word actually says. “The LORD detests those whose hearts are perverse, but he delights in those whose ways are blameless” (Proverbs 11:20).

Attitude

The story of this man’s “miracle” is not unusual – many people see these incidents as some kind of provision, and often feel justified in their misguided thinking because “those insurance companies are just ripping people off anyway”. To them, the company is just a company – impersonal and wealthy. They don’t think about the people within that company so it doesn’t feel like one person cheating another.

What the Bible Says

But as Christians, we know we are supposed to live and act differently than the rest of the world. We believe all our resources belong to God, not us. Therefore, the resources that are in the control of an insurance company are still God’s. Which means we are held accountable for how they are spent on us just as much as if the funds came out of our own savings account.

“The righteousness of the upright delivers them, but the unfaithful are trapped by evil desires.” (Proverbs 11:6)  

Provision

The Bible never says, “You will never have to face unfair circumstances, and even if you do, I’ll make sure you don’t have to pay for them.” NO! It says, “I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33)

It also says, “The prudent see danger and take refuge, but the simple keep going and pay the penalty.” (Proverbs 27:12)

The Bible teaches provision, not protection.

God wants us to be responsible, but too often we use insurance to shift our responsibilities to someone else.

Which also means we often shift our trust away from God, and towards an insurance company.

Reasons to Be Insured

Insurance can be used to provide where a potential loss would be excessive. It can help a family when a major illness or disability strikes. It can provide income in the loss of a spouse, pay medical bills, and help repair a damaged home.

When another’s loss must be considered, like with automobile liability coverage, insurance is vital. As Solomon said, “A prudent man sees evil and hides himself, the naïve proceed and pay the penalty.” (Proverbs 22:3)

A trustworthy independent insurance agent can help you make a wise decision. Remember the Bible tells us to seek wise counsel, so look for an agent who has your interests at heart, not their own. Get references from people you know well, then make sure the agent thoroughly defines the insurance plan in writing. Compare prices and remember, …”in an abundance of counselors there is victory.” (Proverbs 24:6)

Insurance is a way to responsibly provide for those you love. Plan well so that you can live simply and give generously. The first step is to enroll in Crown’s online MoneyLife Personal Finance study. You’ll learn how to live as a steward in every area of your finances, what the Bible says about insurance, and how to plan a lasting legacy.