27 Bible Verses About Risk Taking (With Commentary)
Stepping out of our comfort zones and taking risks can lead to personal growth, new opportunities, and even miracles. The Bible encourages a faith that is bold and unafraid to take risks for the sake of God’s kingdom. Join us as we explore inspiring Bible verses that illuminate the transformative power of risk-taking, encouraging us to trust in God’s guidance and embrace the extraordinary life He has in store for us.
Bible Verses About Risk Taking
Proverbs 29:25
“The fear of man brings a snare, but whoever trusts in the Lord shall be safe.”
Fear can often hold us back from taking risks, especially when it comes to stepping out in faith. This verse reminds us that relying on the opinions and fears of others can lead to entrapment. However, when we place our trust in the Lord, we find true safety and can confidently take risks, knowing that He is with us.
Matthew 14:29
“So, He said, ‘Come.’ And when Peter had come down out of the boat, he walked on the water to go to Jesus.”
This verse recounts the famous story of Peter walking on water. Peter took a significant risk by stepping out of the boat and trusting Jesus. Although he briefly faltered due to fear, his initial act of faith demonstrates the rewards and possibilities that come with taking risks in obedience to Christ.
Mark 8:35
“For whoever desires to save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for My sake and the gospel’s will save it.”
This verse challenges us to consider the cost of playing it safe. It teaches us that when we are willing to risk everything, even our own lives, for the sake of Jesus and the Gospel, we ultimately find true and eternal life.
Joshua 1:9
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
God’s command to Joshua applies to us as well. It encourages us to take risks with strength and courage, knowing that God is always with us. Even in the face of uncertainty, we can move forward confidently, trusting in His presence and guidance.
Hebrews 11:6
“But without faith, it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”
This verse reminds us that faith requires an element of risk. When we step out in faith, believing that God exists and rewards those who earnestly seek Him, we please Him. Taking risks based on our faith in God’s character and promises allows us to experience His abundant blessings.
Philippians 3:8
“Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ.”
The apostle Paul’s words highlight his willingness to take risks for the sake of knowing Christ intimately. He considered everything he had previously valued as loss compared to the surpassing worth of knowing Jesus. This verse challenges us to reevaluate our priorities and consider the risks we are willing to take to deepen our relationship with Christ.
Ecclesiastes 11:4
“He who observes the wind will not sow, and he who regards the clouds will not reap.”
This verse speaks to the importance of taking action and seizing opportunities, even when circumstances seem uncertain. If we are overly cautious and constantly waiting for perfect conditions, we may never sow or reap the intended harvest. It encourages us to take calculated risks and trust God’s provision.
Acts 20:24
“But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.”
Paul’s declaration reflects his boldness and willingness to take risks for the sake of his mission to spread the gospel. He was ready to face any obstacle, even risking his own life, in order to fulfill his calling. This verse inspires us to embrace a similar attitude, recognizing the joy that comes from fulfilling our God-given purposes, even in the face of risks.
Matthew 25:14-15
“For the kingdom of heaven is like a man traveling to a far country, who called his own servants and delivered his goods to them. And to one he gave five talents, to another two, and to another one, to each according to his own ability; and immediately he went on a journey.”
This parable illustrates the concept of risk-taking through the master’s distribution of talents to his servants. Each servant was entrusted with varying amounts, and they were expected to invest and multiply what they had received. The parable encourages us to use the resources and abilities given to us by God, taking calculated risks for His kingdom and expecting a fruitful return.
2 Timothy 1:7
“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power and of love and of a sound mind.”
This verse reminds us that fear is not from God. Instead, He has equipped us with power, love, and a sound mind. It encourages us to take risks rooted in faith, knowing that God’s Spirit within us empowers and guides us.
Genesis 12:1-2
“Now the Lord had said to Abram: ‘Get out of your country, from your family and from your father’s house, to a land that I will show you. I will make you a great nation; I will bless you and make your name great; and you shall be a blessing.’”
Abram, later known as Abraham, took a significant risk by leaving his homeland and venturing into the unknown at God’s command. This act of faith led to remarkable blessings and ultimately made him the father of many nations. It serves as a reminder that taking risks in obedience to God’s leading can result in tremendous rewards and blessings.
Luke 14:28
“For which of you, intending to build a tower, does not sit down first and count the cost, whether he has enough to finish it?”
This verse emphasizes the importance of wise risk assessment and planning. It encourages us to consider the potential costs and implications before embarking on a venture. While it doesn’t discourage risk-taking, it urges us to be prepared and thoughtful, ensuring we have what it takes to see the endeavor through.
Romans 8:31
“What then shall we say to these things? If God is for us, who can be against us?”
This verse provides us with assurance and courage as we consider taking risks. It reminds us that if we have God on our side, there is no obstacle or opposition that can ultimately defeat us. When we trust in God’s favor and presence, we can step out boldly, even in the face of uncertainty.
Acts 16:25-26
“But at midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the prisoners were listening to them. Suddenly there was a great earthquake, so that the foundations of the prison were shaken; and immediately all the doors were opened, and everyone’s chains were loosed.”
This verse depicts Paul and Silas’s act of risk-taking through their worship and prayer in the midst of imprisonment. Instead of succumbing to fear or despair, they chose to praise God. Their boldness resulted in a miraculous earthquake that not only freed them but impacted those around them. It demonstrates the transformative power of taking risks in faith.
Proverbs 3:5-6
“Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways acknowledge Him, and He shall direct your paths.”
When considering risk-taking, this verse offers profound guidance. It encourages us to place our complete trust in the Lord rather than relying solely on our limited understanding. By acknowledging Him and seeking His guidance in all our endeavors, we can confidently take risks, knowing that He will direct our paths.
Matthew 16:24
“Then Jesus said to His disciples, ‘If anyone desires to come after Me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow Me.’”
Jesus’ words highlight the cost of discipleship and the willingness to take risks for the sake of following Him. The call to deny oneself and take up the cross involves sacrifice and risk-taking. It challenges us to let go of personal desires and comforts, embracing the challenges that come with faithfully pursuing Christ.
1 Corinthians 16:14
“Let all that you do be done with love.”
When contemplating risk-taking, this verse reminds us of the importance of love. Love should be the guiding principle in all our endeavors, motivating us to take risks that reflect God’s love for others. Risk-taking rooted in love can lead to transformative impact and demonstrate Christ’s character to the world.
Romans 12:2
“And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”
This verse encourages us to break free from conformity and embrace a renewed mindset. Risk-taking often requires stepping outside societal norms and cultural expectations. By aligning our thinking with God’s truth and seeking His will, we can courageously take risks that align with His plans and purposes.
Matthew 10:39
“He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for My sake will find it.”
Jesus’ words remind us that clinging to a life focused solely on self-preservation and comfort leads to emptiness and loss. However, when we are willing to surrender our lives and take risks for the sake of following Jesus, we discover true life and fulfillment. Taking risks for His sake yields eternal rewards that surpass anything this world can offer.
Deuteronomy 31:6
“Be strong and of good courage, do not fear nor be afraid of them; for the Lord your God, He is the One who goes with you. He will not leave you nor forsake you.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of courage in the face of risk-taking. It reminds us that God is always with us, providing the strength and support we need. When we rely on His presence and promise, we can overcome fear and step out in faith, taking risks with confidence.
1 Peter 5:7
“Casting all your care upon Him, for He cares for you.”
When considering risk-taking, this verse reminds us to release our worries and concerns to God. Knowing that He cares for us deeply, we can trust Him with the outcomes of our risks. By casting our burdens upon Him, we free ourselves to take bold steps, knowing that He is in control.
Joshua 1:9
“Have I not commanded you? Be strong and of good courage; do not be afraid, nor be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”
God’s command to Joshua applies to us as well. It encourages us to take risks with strength and courage, knowing that God is always with us. Even in the face of uncertainty, we can move forward confidently, trusting in His presence and guidance.
Hebrews 11:6
“But without faith, it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.”
This verse reminds us that faith requires an element of risk. When we step out in faith, believing that God exists and rewards those who earnestly seek Him, we please Him. Taking risks based on our faith in God’s character and promises allows us to experience His abundant blessings.
Philippians 3:8
“Yet indeed I also count all things loss for the excellence of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have suffered the loss of all things and count them as rubbish, that I may gain Christ.”
The apostle Paul’s words highlight his willingness to take risks for the sake of knowing Christ intimately. He considered everything he had previously valued as loss compared to the surpassing worth of knowing Jesus. This verse challenges us to reevaluate our priorities and consider the risks we are willing to take to deepen our relationship with Christ.
Ecclesiastes 11:4
“He who observes the wind will not sow, and he who regards the clouds will not reap.”
This verse speaks to the importance of taking action and seizing opportunities, even when circumstances seem uncertain. If we are overly cautious and constantly waiting for perfect conditions, we may never sow or reap the intended harvest. It encourages us to take calculated risks and trust God’s provision.
Acts 20:24
“But none of these things move me; nor do I count my life dear to myself, so that I may finish my race with joy, and the ministry which I received from the Lord Jesus, to testify to the gospel of the grace of God.”
Paul’s declaration reflects his boldness and willingness to take risks for the sake of his mission. He was willing to face challenges and even sacrifice his life to fulfill his calling. This verse inspires us to embrace a similar attitude, prioritizing the completion of our God-given assignments over personal comfort and safety.
Matthew 25:28-29
“So take the talent from him and give it to him who has ten talents. For to everyone who has, more will be given, and he will have abundance; but from him who does not have, even what he has will be taken away.”
This verse is part of the parable of the talents, illustrating the principle of risk and reward. The master rewards the servants who took risks and multiplied their talents, while the one who played it safe and buried his talent faced loss. It teaches us that calculated risk-taking in stewarding what God has entrusted to us leads to greater abundance and blessing.
