In what ways can we "sell all" to prioritize God's kingdom today? Setting the Scene “ ‘One thing you still lack. Sell all you possess and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me.’ ” (Luke 18:22) What “Sell All” Meant Then • A literal command to the rich ruler—liquidate every asset, give the proceeds away, and physically join Jesus’ traveling band of disciples. • A heart test—expose whether anything outranks God in affections (Luke 12:34). • A doorway into true riches—“treasure in heaven” that never fades (Luke 12:33). Translating the Principle for Today Selling everything is not always a required physical act, yet the call to undivided allegiance remains. Below are practical, present-day ways to “sell all” and prioritize God’s kingdom: • Open-handed ownership – Recognize every dollar, possession, and talent as God’s property (Psalm 24:1). – Hold resources loosely, ready to use or release them at His direction. • Generous giving as first priority – Set aside the “firstfruits” of income before anything else (Proverbs 3:9-10). – Support gospel work, local church ministries, missionaries, and the needy (2 Corinthians 9:6-8). • Lifestyle reduction for eternal gain – Curb unnecessary upgrades, subscriptions, or luxury spending so funds and time flow to kingdom purposes (1 Timothy 6:6-8). – Choose contentment over consumerism. • Redirecting vocational goals – Weigh career choices by kingdom impact, not merely salary or status (Colossians 3:23-24). – Be willing to change jobs, relocate, or accept lesser pay if it frees you for serving Christ more effectively. • Strategic hospitality – Use your home as a ministry base—meals for neighbors, Bible studies, refuge for missionaries (Romans 12:13). – Budget for extra groceries and wear on furniture rather than pristine perfection. • Time liquidation – “Sell” blocks of leisure time to invest in prayer, Scripture intake, discipleship, and evangelism (Ephesians 5:15-16). – Schedule kingdom commitments first; let recreation fill in the margins. • Risk-embracing obedience – Say yes when God prompts, even if it threatens comfort or safety—short-term missions, inner-city outreach, foster care (Acts 20:24). – Trust His promise: “Whoever loses his life for My sake will save it” (Luke 9:24). • Emotional detachment from stuff – Practice periodic decluttering; give good items away freely (Hebrews 13:16). – Guard against the subtle pull of accumulation that dulls spiritual hunger. Why This Still Matters • It affirms Jesus’ supreme worth—He remains the “pearl of great price” (Matthew 13:45-46). • It protects the heart from idolatry—money competes hard for lordship (Matthew 6:24). • It magnifies the gospel—radical generosity displays confidence in a better resurrection (Hebrews 10:34). • It stores imperishable wealth—“an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading” (1 Peter 1:4). Encouragement for the Journey Christ’s call to “sell all” is not loss but joyful exchange. As we surrender resources, plans, and comforts to His lordship, He supplies abundant grace and eternal dividends far outweighing every sacrifice (2 Corinthians 4:17). |
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