1 Samuel 14:1 (NKJV)
“Now it happened one day that Jonathan the son of Saul said to the young man who bore his armor, ‘Come, let us go over to the Philistines’ garrison that is on the other side.’ But he did not tell his father.”

Most of us are careful with risk because, by its very nature, risk is not attractive. Risk means, “doing something that can be possibly fatal, if things go wrong.” Because nobody wants to suffer unnecessarily, we usually avoid risk. But there is great value in taking “good risks.”

What are good risks? Good risks are calculated risks. Nobody should undertake any risk without first counting the costs and judging whether the pros outweigh the cons. If the pros have a higher value, then that risk is worth it. Count the costs and step out.

Secondly, good risks are risks for a good cause. Taking risks just for the sake of risk isn’t worth it. Before risk is undertaken, you need to ensure that you analyze why the risk is being taken in the first place. If taking risks will produce positive results, then it can be justified.

Thirdly, taking good risks must never be by coercion or force. Never let yourself be forced into taking any risks that you are not convinced about. If you will take a risk, be convinced in your heart why you are doing it. Don’t do it to impress anyone. Resist all pressures to take risks.

Risk-takers have always been at the forefront of breakthroughs, inventions, record-breaking achievements, and general progress. Risk-takers have often seen what others could not see, and they usually went against the tide of public opinion. While many risk-takers usually achieve unprecedented successes, they also attract unprecedented criticisms and opposition as well.

Jonathan took a risk when he ventured into the camp of the Philistines. He, of course, knew it was dangerous. Remember, he went only with his assistant, and he alone had a sword. What did he expect to happen? What did he want to achieve? But he went ahead all the same. He was an example of a risk-taker. He counted the cost, and he ventured forward.

Risk-takers often look foolish when they venture out to try something new. But there has never been advancement without someone willing to take some risk. We are where we are today in modern civilization because of risk-takers. Are you taking risks? Or are you scared to step out?