I talk a lot about the importance of having an emergency fund and how it is a necessary ingredient to a sound financial plan. But, I thought we should step back and ask the necessary question, “Would Jesus have an emergency fund?”
In trying to answer this question, the first verse that came to mind was Proverbs 27:12 (NLT) “A prudent person foresees danger and takes precautions. The simpleton goes blindly on and suffers the consequences.”
The whole purpose of having an emergency fund is to be prepared for when the inevitable “trials of life” hit. Christians are not exempt of these trials and struggles that seem to pop up unexpectedly.
This reminds me of the parable of the foolish virgins in Matthew 25:1-13. From what I can tell, the foolish virgins brought enough oil for their lamps had the bridegroom showed up on time. Well the bridegroom was probably playing football with some friends and showed up a little late. (And he didn’t even call to say he was going to be late!!)
What separated the foolish from the wise was their preparation for the unexpected. The virgins forever known as foolish, didn’t plan for the unexpected by bringing extra oil. Those who were labeled wise brought extra oil in preparation for the unexpected.
Jesus knew the balance of what part He played and what He should rely on God to do. We have a part to play, but it is foolish of us to think higher of ourselves than we ought and think that we have a more important role than we actually do. Ultimately God is the one who supplies all of our needs (Philippians 4:19).
But Jesus also said “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” Matthew 6.
I get convicted by this verse when I have a temptation to think that if I can save enough money, I can insulate myself from any and all problems; thus not needing God. I have to fight against the tendency to trust in myself and depend on my abilities rather than God. The truth is that we can never make enough smart financial decisions or do enough things right that we will not need Him. He designed it that way. We are imperfect beings who are dependent on God.
So, as far as Jesus’ emergency fund goes, if He were walking the earth today, I think He would have one, but He would still trust God for His daily bread (Matthew 6:11).
There are a bunch more verses that would point to suggest yes or no to the question, so I would love to hear what your take on Jesus’ emergency fund is in the comments below…
