Possessions

For the last few days, we have been considering an interaction between Jesus and the rich young man who desired to know how to have eternal life.

The wealthy young man we have been considering over the last few days wanted eternal life but wanted to live life his way until the time came for him to die. Today’s passage records his response to Jesus’ call for a fresh start.

C. S. Lewis wrote, “The human spirit will not begin to try to surrender self-will as long as all seems to be well with it.” When we are good, we’re good. We don’t need God. As one person said, “We regard God as an airman regards his parachute; it’s there for emergencies but he hopes he’ll never have to use it.”

The world promises freedom but delivers slavery. Here’s what Peter tells believers as his life is coming to an end.

Money is a neutral object made of paper and metal and confirmed in bank statements or portfolios. Contrary to the adage, money doesn’t talk…or feel or act. Money is neither good nor bad but can be used in good and bad ways. It’s the “love of money” that is the “root of all kinds of evils” (1 Tim. 6:10).

There is this problem with things—we will never have enough. The desire for possessions is like a mosquito bite. The more you scratch it, the more it itches (Eccl. 5:10). We get pleasure from possessions…for a brief time.

In times of doubt, the shield of faith protects us with the promises of God. In times of temptation, the same shield protects us with the power of God.

Turn your eyes to the Holy One today!

When we learn to do things God’s way we move from whining to thanksgiving because “God keeps [us] occupied with joy in [our] heart[s].”