Rest and Reflect

What do we give up? August 16, 2008

Luke 18 speaks about a rich young ruler who apparently had everything he needed in this world. But then why did he come to find Jesus? What must I do to get eternal life? He asked, not knowing that the whole point to eternal life is knowing God (John 17:3). He went away sad because somehow the cost for knowing God was too great. Oh if only he simply came and followed as Jesus was inviting him to.

After all… “But what do we give up, when we give all? A sin-polluted heart, for Jesus to purify, to cleanse by His own blood, and to save by His matchless love. And yet men think it hard to give up all! I am ashamed to hear it spoken of, ashamed to write it.” (Steps to Christ p.46)

Genesis 3 Satan insinuated that if we really wanted freedom to live a great life, we need to leave God. God is an unnecessary distraction. No, moreover, God is holding us back from a life worth living. Our first parents bought into that lie and ate the fruit.

Oh but the heart is deceitful above all things (Jer 17:9), we are “corrupt because our lusts deceive us” (Eph 4:22). Really all we’re giving up is that. Are we really so deceived to think we are sacrificing anything of value to gain a relationship with God?!

Luke 18:30 Jesus promises that if we would give up our “sin-polluted heart” we will receive much more in this PRESENT life! Eternal life is not just in the future. It is right now.
Eph 3:8 Which is why I want to preach the “unsearchable riches of Christ”

You want to experience a life that is overflowing with fullness? Know God.