How Hard It Is

A rich young ruler came to Jesus, asking what he should do to inherit eternal life. Jesus began by asking a series of question. The questions were designed to pinpoint one specific problem in young ruler’s life. Then Jesus said, “One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.” (Mk. 10:21 NKJV)

That was a radical solution. And because Jesus didn’t tell everyone to sell everything they owned and then give it away, we know it was a personal message. If it seems hard to us, that’s because we don’t know the condition or state of the ruler’s heart, we don’t know his spiritual needs, and we don’t know anything about God’s call upon his life.

The sad thing is that the ruler didn’t respond positively to Jesus’ message. The Bible tells us, he went away grieved, for he had great possessions. (v. 22b)

Great possessions are nice, but not if they keep us from following God.

Originally published May 17, 1991.