Caution

Caution

MY QUESTION for GOD

How can I balance risk and caution?

A MOMENT with GOD

If you are afraid to attack, go down to the camp with your servant Purah. Listen to what the Midianites are saying, and you will be greatly encouraged. Then you will be eager to attack.

Judges 7:10-11

Fear keeps you from taking risks. Caution keeps you from risking too much. The first step in balancing risk and caution is to identify what makes you afraid to take a particular risk, then confirm whether or not that fear is legitimate. You may be surprised at how often your fears have no basis.

The Jews who lived near the enemy came and told us again and again, “They will come from all directions and attack us!” So I placed armed guards behind the lowest parts of the wall in the exposed areas. I stationed the people to stand guard by families, armed with swords, spears, and bows. . . . We carried our weapons with us at all times, even when we went for water.

Nehemiah 4:12-13, 23

Along with examining your fears, you must be aware of any real dangers and be prepared to face them. In this story from the Old Testament, Nehemiah anticipated the obstacles to the work of rebuilding the wall of Jerusalem, but he didn’t let the threat of attack stop him or the people from working! When you take caution, you prepare for the worst, but then you work diligently.

Wise people think before they act; fools don’t—and even brag about their foolishness.

Proverbs 13:16

The prudent understand where they are going, but fools deceive themselves. . . . Only simpletons believe everything they’re told! The prudent carefully consider their steps.

Proverbs 14:8, 15

Too much caution can keep you from becoming a success or fulfilling your dreams if it prevents you from taking the first step. Don’t be afraid to make a mistake. Think about what you want to do, plan the best way to do it, and then move ahead with confidence!

DIVINE PROMISE

THE WISE ARE CAUTIOUS AND AVOID DANGER; FOOLS PLUNGE AHEAD WITH RECKLESS CONFIDENCE.   Proverbs 14:16