Matthew 19:20-21.Working

Matthew 19:20-21.Working

19:20 “All these I have kept,” (From my youth up.-K.J.V.) the young man said.  (Suggests only externally and outwardly, not inwardly from the heart. (Matt. Chps 5 & 6) “What do I still lack?” (Expresses a lack of peace and fulfillment. That no amount of morals or wealth can ever fill the empty void in your life but God.) 21 Jesus answered, (looked at him and loved him.-{Mark 10:21}-Expresses Jesus’ joy over the man’s honesty and sincerity.) “If you want to be perfect,(5049-Complete. Expresses not sinless perfection, but undivided loyalty, commitment, sold out, etc.) go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, (Suggests the man possessions were an idol that was hindering him from coming to God.) and you will have treasure in heaven. (i.e. Spiritual peace, joy, fulfillment, eternal life, forgiveness, etc.) Then come, follow me.”(Calls for leaving it all behind in following Christ.)

Continued From Book

“Displays how you can have it all; money, wealth, power, fame, success, etc. yet still have an empty void in your life.” ⇒ Many people today, for all of their money and outward successes, feel that same emptiness within, whether they talk about it or not. They know that deep down inside, something isn’t right.

“What Jesus is asking for was specific to this man and what he needed to hear, Where as it’s going to be different for each of us. I can’t answer what that barrier is between you and God. You must search your own heart and confess it openly to God.” ⇒ Over the years for me personally, I have had several high places in my life that I had to tear down…these high places have varied and were not always inherently bad, but I made these things bad because they occupied too much love in my heart… too much thought in my mind…and took too much time. They were an idol because it showed that I was devoted more to these things than to God. And that’s what an idol is…it’s the “Thing” you give greater devotion or worship to over God. So, what is it for you? Maybe your here today and your walk is good with the Lord. If so, praise God. But, maybe you have an idol in your life that needs addressing? Maybe for you its Family? Career, Sports? Leisure? Maybe it’s Video games? Money? Pleasure? Food? Some secret sin? that’s coming between you and God?