Definition:
True gain in life, from a biblical perspective, refers to the spiritual and eternal benefits that come from living a life aligned with God's will, as opposed to the temporary and often deceptive gains of worldly pursuits. It emphasizes the importance of spiritual wealth over material wealth and the eternal over the temporal.

Biblical Context:
The concept of true gain is deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus and the apostles, who often contrasted the fleeting nature of earthly riches with the enduring value of spiritual treasures. True gain is associated with righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness.

Key Scriptures:

1. Matthew 6:19-21 :
"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

· This passage highlights the transient nature of earthly possessions and encourages believers to focus on accumulating heavenly treasures, which represent true gain.

2. 1 Timothy 6:6-10 :
"Of course, godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into the world, and neither can we carry anything out of it. But if we have food and clothing, we will be content with these. Those who want to be rich, however, fall into temptation and become ensnared by many foolish and harmful desires that plunge them into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. By craving it, some have wandered away from the faith and pierced themselves with many sorrows."

· Paul emphasizes that true gain is found in godliness combined with contentment, warning against the dangers of pursuing wealth for its own sake.

3. Philippians 3:7-8 :
"But whatever was gain to me I count as loss for the sake of Christ. More than that, I count all things as loss compared to the surpassing excellence of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whom I have lost all things. I consider them rubbish, that I may gain Christ."

· Paul illustrates that true gain is found in knowing Christ and valuing Him above all else, even at the cost of losing worldly status or possessions.

4. Mark 8:36 :
"What does it profit a man to gain the whole world, yet forfeit his soul?"

· Jesus poses a rhetorical question to underscore the futility of worldly gain when it comes at the expense of one's eternal soul.

Theological Implications:
True gain in life is fundamentally about prioritizing one's relationship with God and the pursuit of His kingdom. It involves a shift in values from the temporal to the eternal, recognizing that true fulfillment and purpose are found in Christ alone. This perspective challenges believers to evaluate their lives in light of eternity and to seek first the kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33).

Practical Application:
Believers are encouraged to live with an eternal perspective, investing in relationships, acts of service, and spiritual growth that yield eternal dividends. This involves a conscious decision to resist the allure of materialism and to cultivate a heart of contentment and generosity. By doing so, Christians can experience the true gain that comes from a life devoted to God and His purposes.