day 750: Golden Parachutes (repost)

"Those in in frequent contact with things of the world should make good use of them without becoming attached to them, for the world and all its contents will pass away."

There has been a lot of talk again about the golden parachutes that senior executives continue to receive. The term golden parachute describes the generous severance benefits that are created for executives when they lose their jobs. It is supposed to give them a gentle landing into their next job, etc. Unfortunately, the size of these parachutes have gone from a gentle landing to allowing them to stay in the air for as long as they want with no touchdown in sight. As we see these doled out, it is no wonder that people within a company begin to mistrust or question whether or not the senior people and a Board are taking care of themselves over others. We also are seeing more and more people wanting to negotiate, upon their hiring, some type of severance package. This comes from the fears over the last few years of losing a job not because of personal performance but because of circumstances outside of our control. There is nothing wrong with having a separation package already worked out, but it is the underlying needs and motivation that most matter.

If we are counting on the things of the world to be there for us throughout our entire life, then we are counting on the wrong things. Whether it be our home, our finances, our relationships or our health, all the things of this world are the wrong places to be putting our faith. Paul says this in 1 Corinthians 7:31; "Those in in frequent contact with things of the world should make good use of them without becoming attached to them, for the world and all its contents will pass away." The question is not if they will pass away, the question is when. If we are working and living counting on our golden parachute to be there when we decide to pull the rip cord, then we may find ourselves sorely disappointed. God doesn't want to give us a parachute for a soft landing, He wants to give us wings to soar through our life. If we look to Him for our future then we will never have to worry about being let down. Let's think about this today as we start this work week and ensure that we have put our future in the right hands.

Reference: 1 Corinthians 7:31 (New Living Testament)