The True Cost of Following Jesus
A Lesson in Priorities
Have you ever wondered why Jesus would ask someone to give up everything they own? It’s a question that has puzzled many, including a young man who approached Jesus seeking eternal life. Jesus’ response was simple yet profound: “Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” (Mark 10:21-22)
Unmasking Our True Idols
At first glance, this story may seem confusing. The young man had tried to follow the Ten Commandments, so why would Jesus discourage him by asking him to give away all he owned? But as we dig deeper, it becomes clear that Jesus was not concerned with the man’s wealth itself, but with what it represented. For the young man, wealth was a status symbol, a source of pride, and a reflection of his own achievement. In essence, it had become his idol.
The First Commandment
Jesus’ request was not about taking away the man’s possessions, but about revealing where his heart truly lay. The first commandment reminds us that we should not put anything above God. When the young man claimed to have kept all the commandments since his youth, Jesus knew he was mistaken. He had broken the very first one, prioritizing his wealth over his relationship with God.
A Call to Surrender
So what if Jesus asked you to give up your most prized possession, be it material, relational, or even an aspect of yourself? Would you be willing to release it to Him? Remember, everything belongs to God anyway. He has blessed you with all the things you cherish, and it’s up to you to use them wisely.
A Prayer of Surrender
As we reflect on our own priorities, let us pray:
“Dear Lord, help me to place my priorities in your capable and loving hands. Everything belongs to you, and I am just a steward of it. Help me to use what you give wisely and to the benefit of others before it becomes a source of pride for me. Amen.”
Letting Go of Pride
By surrendering our priorities to God, we can break free from the grip of pride and find true freedom in following Jesus. It’s not about giving up everything we own, but about recognizing that everything we have is a gift from God, to be used for His glory and the benefit of others.
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