Behold, [man] came to him and said, “Good teacher, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?â€Â         Matthew 19:16 (WEB)
The rich young man thought he had it all – except that assurance of what was next after this life. He had all that money could buy and was a good man! He obeyed God’s commandments. He knew those commands so we can surmise that he was educated int eh Torah, probably attended synagogue regularly.
Too many of us fall into the deception that if we attend church and know Scripture we are disciples of Jesus. Our actions can be checked off on the approved list but our hearts are not totally sold out to Jesus.
“…I, Yahweh your God, am a jealous God…†Exodus 20:5 (WEB)
What do we think this means? Can we bargain with God about our priorities? Who do I love more – God or the things and priorities of this world? What is the truth hidden in my heart? Who or what do I love the best?
Jesus told the man that it was not lack that would keep him for eternal life but his desire for wealth and achievement over desire to be obedient to God. The man went away sad and unfulfilled because he could not give away all that he had done and do what God wanted him to do.
How much do I limit God or what I will hear as an answer from God when I ask Him a question? Am I willing to give all to receive more?
