What if you had everything you ever needed, but there was something missing inside of you? It kept your stomach churning. First, it started slowly. Over time the uneasiness became more intense. You tried to calm it down. Change of diet did not work. Then, you tried some medicine and it still churned. Do you see this was the case for the rich young ruler in the Bible?
Then Jesus came to town. The rich young ruler sought the Lord. He wanted a solution to his stomach’s churning question. Upon finding Jesus, the young man asked Jesus one question. “What do I need to do to have eternal life?”
Everyone who hears the gospel explained, wonders about eternal life—their eternal life. Jesus said no one may go to heaven on their own merits. Then, the Lord repeated six of the ten commandments (Mark 10:19). Each of the six commandments related to man’s dealings with other people. The young ruler replied, “I do these.” Jesus directed the conversation to the young man’s relationship with God. The Lord basically asked, who is your God? The Father in heaven or your possessions.
Everything a person has is by God’s grace. Health to work, wisdom to prosper, and insight to give. We cannot take our earthly possessions with us into eternity. However, we can build up eternal rewards by our giving practices here on earth.
Giving is a choice we make. Obeying God is another choice we make. It’s all about who we love, trust, and serve.
Life is all about priorities. Who comes first, second or last? Christ lived as an example; he was never selfish. His life was always about others. His life now is still about others. Jesus wants what is best for each of his children. Best for eternity, not for the here and now.
One of the great things about our Savior is he can see into the future. He knows what is going to happen tomorrow, next year, and the rest of our lives. So, if we are wise, we will be happy with each of his decisions. And we will have all eternity to thank him for his wise provisions and protection.
