Insurance through a Biblical Lens
Insurance through a Biblical Lens
“But as for you, you meant evil against me; but God meant it for good, in order to bring it about as it is this day, to save many people alive.” Genesis 50:20
Insurance in all its forms is protection against the possibility of loss or damage. It involves the transfer of risk from one party to another based on compensation from the insured to the insurer. For thousands of years, various forms of insurance have been used—an acknowledgement of the human desire to avoid the impact of negative events in life. Insurance can be taken out for a limited time (travel insurance) or for a lifetime (life insurance).
The Bible does not directly talk about insurance, but it does encourage people to plan wisely and take care of their families. Proverbs 6:6-8 tells us to learn from the ant, which prepares for the future by storing food for hard times. In the same way, insurance can be a tool to help protect against unexpected problems, like accidents, illnesses, or financial loss. Proverbs 27:12 also teaches that wise people see danger and take steps to avoid it, which supports the idea of planning ahead for life’s uncertainties.
Taking care of family is a big responsibility in the Bible, and insurance can be one way to do that. 1 Timothy 5:8 says that anyone who does not provide for their family has denied their faith. Having life or health or Long Term Care insurance can help ensure that loved ones are cared for if something happens.
While insurance can be useful, the Bible warns against trusting money instead of God. Matthew 6:19-21 reminds us not to focus only on wealth, because it can be lost or destroyed, but to store up treasures in heaven. Proverbs 11:28 also warns that those who trust in riches will fall, but those who trust in God will thrive. Insurance should be seen as a helpful tool, not as something that replaces faith in God’s protection and provision.
The Bible says we have an insurance policy of sorts with God that says, regardless of what happens, it will result in a good outcome in our life. That is the message of Romans 8:28: All things will work together for the good of those who belong to God’s family. No insurance company offers a policy with that kind of blanket coverage!
Genesis 50:20 illustrates God's providence in working bad circumstances for good. Joseph tells his brothers, “You intended to harm me, but God intended it for good to accomplish what is now being done, the saving of many lives.” This truth applies to our personal financial hardships as well. Even when loss or disaster comes, God can use it for His purposes. Insurance may help in difficult times, but our real hope is in God's ability to bring good out of bad situations. Whether through personal trials or financial struggles, He is always at work, turning what seems like a setback into an opportunity for His glory.
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