Courage

The disciples were “amazed” and “astonished.” They had heard Jesus teach on countless occasions, and perform many miracles. Yet His message that day was particularly difficult to believe.

It was a message about “how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God.” Yes, it was so simple that a child could enter, but it required a commitment that many adults would find impossible.

He was responding to a man’s questions about how to “inherit eternal life.” The man knew and had kept the commands. But Jesus said he needed a deeper commitment, to “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.”

But the man “had great possessions” that were more important to him than following Jesus or serving God. He walked away, unwilling to do things God’s way.

As Jesus warned, those who focus on themselves and their possessions can find it “impossible” to enter God’s Kingdom. Everything changes for those who truly trust God, but this takes great courage, and faith.

This is a challenge for all of us. As we face decisions, will we simply go along with the crowd? Do what is convenient and makes the most sense? Or do we have the courage to obey God? To do things His way, willingly laying everything else aside to trust Him?

Are we really willing to follow Him? To trust Him totally? To make a total commitment? To walk by faith and not sight?