January 29
Matthew 19:13-30
If your wildest dreams came true, what would be different in your life? You might wish for a larger bank account, a bigger house, and more stuff, but would these things be helpful? Jesus’ interaction with the young man reveals that the things we value and desire might hinder our relationship with God. We are told the man walked away sad because his great wealth walled him off from drawing near to Jesus. His heart was so full of money, that it had no room left for God. This spotlight on idolatry reveals we all can be tempted to put anything as the ultimate in our lives. We might dream of greater wealth, but what we might conceive of as a blessing could turn into a curse!
Further, Jesus subverts all worldly values by stating, “Many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first.” It seemed the disciples needed this constant reminder that what God values is not the same as the world. The disciples tried to rebuke those who were bringing children to Jesus because they considered them a waste of time, but Jesus proclaimed, “the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Citizenship in God’s kingdom cannot be bought or earned, but rather is available to the humble who receive the gift by grace.
Father God, help me to see that greatness comes through your grace and your accomplishments, and not through my own. Amen.
Where do you see values that the world has tried to place on you contradicting the values of the kingdom of God?
If your wildest dreams came true, what would be different in your life? You might wish for a larger bank account, a bigger house, and more stuff, but would these things be helpful? Jesus’ interaction with the young man reveals that the things we value and desire might hinder our relationship with God. We are told the man walked away sad because his great wealth walled him off from drawing near to Jesus. His heart was so full of money, that it had no room left for God. This spotlight on idolatry reveals we all can be tempted to put anything as the ultimate in our lives. We might dream of greater wealth, but what we might conceive of as a blessing could turn into a curse!
Further, Jesus subverts all worldly values by stating, “Many who are first will be last, and many who are last will be first.” It seemed the disciples needed this constant reminder that what God values is not the same as the world. The disciples tried to rebuke those who were bringing children to Jesus because they considered them a waste of time, but Jesus proclaimed, “the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these.” Citizenship in God’s kingdom cannot be bought or earned, but rather is available to the humble who receive the gift by grace.
Father God, help me to see that greatness comes through your grace and your accomplishments, and not through my own. Amen.
Where do you see values that the world has tried to place on you contradicting the values of the kingdom of God?
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5 Comments
When considering Derek‘s question, my first thought was profit based advertisers. Then with more consideration , I realized, self-help books, therapist, and much of our modern education system were to blame as well. And ultimately, I came to the realization that non-God focused human nature is in contradiction to the values founded in the kingdom of God and that was evident from the very beginning as it played out in the garden of Eden.
nAnd for me that is proof that God who we says he is.
My apologies, that last sentence was supposed to say;
nAnd for me that is proof that God is who he says he is.
n(I really should proof read before sending a voice text)
The worldly value of a career. For years I have chosen to give myself to a career, continuing to climb a ladder to meet financial needs. This has, at times, put me in positions to choose time spent with family or work. My friends would label me a work a holic, my coworkers would call me a professional and dedicated part of the company. In ways, I like what I do. I feel accomplished - but that is a selfish driver. Many days leave me speechless with the negativity and disgust that I face when approaching my job with a clearer mindset as I continue to grow in faith and His word. It was only recently, through growing more with my faith, that I'm reviewing my relationship with my career differently and am focusing more on family, friends, and faith. However, I've built a life off of the need for income. How do you come down from the high ladder of a career and unweave the intricacies of financial needs in order to better serve Him? If I were to apply my skills to a non-profit or a position of public service, my bills wouldn't be met. For now, I'm taking one step at a time and trying to rebuild my faith and relationship with the LORD. I thank God for leading me to this church and it's Body who has accepted me welcomly so far.
Thank you John. I've been nervous in the past to do so but decided recently, despite only seeing your comment today, to start worshipping in my office. I have my own office and have the room to do so. Alongside some worship music at a respectful noise level, I take time to just breathe, pray, and read these daily devotionals during a quick break.
Leah, I would consider bringing Jesus to work with you every day. Apply his teachings anyway you can in your corporate environment. I have done the same thing in recent years and it has made all the difference. But I will say I am self-employed and I don’t have the threat of being fired for my Christian beliefs.
Thank you John. I've been nervous in the past to do so but decided recently, despite only seeing your comment today, to start worshipping in my office. I have my own office and have the room to do so. Alongside some worship music at a respectful noise level, I take time to just breathe, pray, and read these daily devotionals during a quick break.