Answer
Christians sometimes struggle with the question of whether or not to get insurance—does a Christian with insurance demonstrate a lack of faith? This is a healthy struggle, and believers need to examine the Scriptures and come up with an answer they can defend biblically.
First, let us agree that insurance for Christians is not specifically mentioned in the Bible. If something is not specifically mentioned in the Word of God, then we must draw principles from the teaching of the whole of Scripture. Different believers may come to different personal convictions, and that’s okay. Romans 14 says that such situations call for respect of others’ convictions. Believers have a responsibility to make up their own minds (Romans 14:5). Verse 23 states that whatever we decide must be based on faith. A Christian’s getting insurance is a matter of conviction; a Christian with insurance should be personally convinced that God wants him to have insurance, and a Christian without insurance should be personally convinced otherwise.
Here are some of the biblical principles to guide us: we are to obey the authorities over us. Thus, when we are required by law to have insurance, such as auto liability, we must comply. Also, we are to take care of our families. Thus, Christians should plan ahead for the future benefit of their families, and having insurance can be a part of that. Planning ahead could also include preparing for the unforeseeable early demise of a family member. Life insurance can be seen as a lack of faith or a love of money by some, or as prudent planning and a wise stewardship of funds by others. Each person’s conditions and convictions may differ in these areas. God certainly advocates planning ahead. The story of Joseph and his wise planning not only saved the nation of Egypt but also the people of Israel and the lineage of Christ (Genesis 41).
The bottom line is we must study the Word of God and call out to Him, asking what He would have us do in this and all areas of life. God desires to provide us with wisdom (James 1:5). Hebrews 11:6 states that without faith it is impossible to please Him. This is the real question: “Will this please my Father in heaven?” Another verse to consider is James 4:17, which says that, if we have a chance to do good, we must do it, or else we sin. Another verse that addresses this issue is 1 Timothy 5:8, which states that, if we want to minister to others, we should start with our own families. A Christian can view insurance as a tool to assist him in achieving these goals.
