How can we prioritize eternal life over wealth, as seen in Luke 18:23? Setting the scene “ But when the ruler heard this, he became very sad, because he was extremely wealthy.” — Luke 18:23 The heart of the matter - The young ruler’s sorrow reveals a divided allegiance. - Jesus had just offered him treasure in heaven if he would sell his possessions, give to the poor, and follow Him (v. 22). - The ruler believed he kept the commandments, yet his grip on riches exposed an idol competing with God. Why eternal life outranks wealth - Wealth is temporary; eternal life is everlasting (2 Corinthians 4:18). - Riches can choke spiritual fruitfulness (Luke 8:14). - Eternal life is a gift only God can give; money cannot buy it (Ephesians 2:8-9). - Holding wealth loosely demonstrates trust in God’s provision (Proverbs 11:28). Putting eternal life first today - Redirect resources: allocate a set percentage for kingdom causes before personal spending. - Simplify lifestyle: choose contentment over accumulation (Hebrews 13:5). - Schedule time with God’s Word and fellowship before pursuing career goals. - Celebrate generosity stories in family and church to reinforce kingdom values. - Practice Sabbath rhythms to remind the heart that life is more than productivity and profit. Scripture anchors for a kingdom mindset - Matthew 6:19-21: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” - Mark 8:36: “For what does it profit a man to gain the whole world and forfeit his soul?” - 1 Timothy 6:17-19: instructs the rich “to be rich in good works… so that they may lay hold of the life that is truly life.” - Proverbs 3:9-10: honoring the Lord with wealth leads to His overflowing provision. Checklist for daily living - Examine heart motives before major purchases. - Ask: Will this decision advance gospel impact or merely inflate comfort? - Keep financial records prayerfully, viewing every dollar as stewardship. - Seek counsel from mature believers when tempted by dubious gains. - Remember Christ’s example: “Though He was rich, yet for your sakes He became poor” (2 Corinthians 8:9). Living conclusion Choosing eternal life over wealth means loosening our grip on possessions, tightening our embrace of Christ, and investing in what endures forever. |
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