Does working more hours guarantee greater success? Can we truly earn more by sacrificing our peace of mind, family time, or commitment to Torah? In this inspiring tenth episode of the Shaar Habitachon Podcast, Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe continues exploring the worldly benefits of Bitachon as taught by Rabbeinu Bachya Ibn Pakuda in Chovos HaLevavos. The third worldly benefit of trusting Hashem is the freedom to choose a livelihood that does not compromise our physical health, emotional well-being, or spiritual obligations. Through the remarkable story of his father, a traveling diamond dealer who returned home after an entire week without making a single sale—only to receive an unexpected phone call that produced more business than the entire trip—Rabbi Wolbe illustrates a fundamental truth: Our responsibility is to make an effort, but our success comes entirely from Hashem.
Using the memorable analogy of a water dispenser with multiple spouts, Rabbi Wolbe explains that adding more working hours does not necessarily increase the amount of livelihood Hashem has designated for us. Just as adding more faucets to a container does not create additional water, working seven days instead of six cannot override Hashem's decree. This principle comes alive in the extraordinary story of a Mercedes-Benz salesman who desperately wanted to observe Shabbos but feared losing his greatest source of income. After speaking with Rabbi Wolbe and turning to Hashem for help, an unexpected job opportunity appeared almost immediately, allowing him to build a successful career without sacrificing Shabbos observance. The lesson is powerful: We should never assume that honoring Hashem's commandments must come at the expense of our livelihood.
The episode also explores the fourth worldly benefit of Bitachon: remaining calm and confident when business ventures encounter unexpected setbacks. Whether facing unsold merchandise, unpaid debts, career disruptions, or financial disappointments, a person with genuine Bitachon recognizes that Hashem sees the complete picture even when we cannot. Through the remarkable story of an Israeli kibbutz that observed Shemitah and subsequently received an unexpected international produce contract, Rabbi Wolbe demonstrates how apparent failures can become extraordinary opportunities. From the rise and fall of powerful leaders to the unpredictable nature of business success, the central message remains unchanged: Hashem determines the outcomes, and our task is to act responsibly, remain faithful to His Torah, and trust that His plan is greater than our own.
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This Podcast Series is Generously Underwritten by The Butler Family
Recorded at TORCH Centre in the Levin Family Studios (B) to a live audience on May 18, 2026, in Houston, Texas.
Released as Podcast on November 3, 2026
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This series on Shaar Habitachon [Gate of Trust] is produced in partnership with Hachzek.
Join the revolution of daily Mussar study at hachzek.com.
We are using the Shaar HaBitachon of Chovos Halevavos - Jaffa Family Edition Published by Artscroll Publishers(Click to Purchase)
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Share your questions at aw@torchweb.org or visit torchweb.org for more Torah content.
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About the Host:
Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe, Director of TORCH in Houston, brings decades of Torah scholarship to guide listeners in applying Jewish wisdom to daily life. To directly send your questions, comments, and feedback, please email: awolbe@torchweb.org
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Keywords:
#JewishInspiration, #Mussar, #MasterClass, #ShaarHabitachon, #Bitachon, #Emunah, #ChovosHaLevavos, #TrustInHashem, #FaithInGod, #DivineProvidence, #TrustGod, #InnerPeace, #ConnectionToHashem, #FaithOverFear,
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