Hard Choices
God or Money

Scripture Reading: Matthew 19:16-22

Key Verse: Matthew 19:21

Jesus answered, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”

Our scripture tells us of a young man, intrigued with Jesus, asking what he would have to do to obtain eternal life! I applaud the young man for asking. Many people never think of the life after this present one much less ask critical questions concerning it. This young man was a “seeker,” someone whose heart was curious about the Good News that Jesus was teaching. When opportunity came, he ran up to Jesus and asked what he needed to do now to enjoy eternal life later.

Jesus looked at this young man and knew him. Jesus had probably never met him before, but the Son of God knew him. Jesus knew his upbringing, his values, his lifestyle and what made him “tick” at the core of his being. Jesus went for the “core.” This young man had a treasure hidden away in the center of his heart. It was money! Knowing these intimate details, Jesus explained to him that he needed to sell all his possessions and give the money to the poor. After he did that, he was invited to come back to Jesus and be a true follower. Matthew 19:22 gives us the sad ending: The young man went away sad. He faced a hard choice and chose money.

As I write this devotional, this young man’s body and money are long gone. His soul is still alive, longing to have another chance at that choice! Money can bring hard choices for us. Let’s be careful when wishing we had more of it! Will you be able to see beyond the immediate and live for eternity? If so, it will demand some hard choices.

Father, you’ve put before me blessings and curses, life, and death. I seek help to choose wisely each day. In Jesus’ Name, I pray, amen.