As a kid, I was obsessed with the idea of buried treasure. There was a field near my house I used to bike to. And I’d spend hours exploring. Each uniquely shaped rock was a potential clue or hiding spot.
I never found much real treasure aside from volcanic glass and cool looking feathers. But this naive approach to life has been coming back to me lately. A verse in Proverbs actually makes me think this attitude of treasure-hunting might be a good idea for me in life: “It is the glory of God to conceal a matter; to search out a matter is the glory of kings.”
Here are three attitudes that may seem naive, but can help us uncover good things God has concealed from us.
1. Curiosity
The start of the treasure hunt is all about seeing things for more than they appear at face value. We can’t overlook little details. We have to notice these things and search into them. Ask “why”. Ask “what if”. Ask questions and keep asking questions.
2. Optimism
Then you have to start looking for the potential in all those things. Some of the most innovative people are extreme optimists. They see an opportunity and they get excited – before they even know what that opportunity really is. For instance, most social media success stories are from those who embrace a new medium before they even know what the full potential is. That’s a form of optimism.
It seems naive, but it helps us embrace opportunities and be ready when they’re ready to be uncovered.
3. Bravery
Finally, none of this stuff matters unless you’re willing to act on the curiosity and optimism. It takes bravery to search for the treasure of life. But it also takes bravery to do the right thing with the treasure you find.
Treasure is a waste if you just hoard it. If you just consume it upon yourself, it’ll destroy you. But treasure is at its best – blessings are at their best – when it is invested, given, and grown. It takes bravery to let go of your treasure as an investment. But it’s the best use of it.
I think we could all do with a little more naivety. Let’s start exploring the world – seeking for the buried treasure around every corner.