Don't Lose Out!

Jesus had asked a question we all need to take to heart. It was a question dealing with looking at life and all the things that relate to it, in the balance. What compares? What is measured as of the greatest value? It will be seen in the choices we make in life. It will be revealed in that to which we hold dearest and closest.

Jesus asked:
“(36) For WHAT DOES IT PROFIT a man TO GAIN the whole world AND FORFEIT his life? (37) For WHAT CAN a man GIVE IN RETURN for his life?” ( Mark 8:36-37 ESV)

In Jonah’s prayer he acknowledged a choice that needs to be made when life is looked at in the balance. He stated:
“(8) Those who pay regard to vain idols FORSAKE THEIR HOPE OF STEADFAST LOVE. (9) But I with the voice of thanksgiving will sacrifice to you; what I have vowed I will pay. SALVATION BELONGS TO THE LORD!” ( Jonah 2:8-9 ESV)

God has provided what is necessary for life and godliness. (note 2 Peter 1:3) Jesus’ blood was shed on the cross to deal with our sins. God has provided the record of His truth for us to read and follow. If we lose out -- whose fault will it be? Are we holding on to anything (object, direction, teaching, lifestyle, etc.) that could cause us to FORFEIT the grace that could be ours? We need to look at all of life in the balance and be sure we are holding to that which is right.

Paul stated:
“Not that I have already obtained this or am already perfect, but I PRESS ON TO MAKE IT MY OWN, BECAUSE CHRIST JESUS HAS MADE ME HIS OWN.” ( Philippians 3:12 ESV)

May we continue to hold on to Christ. Hold to His Way. Hold to the manner of His life. Hold to the commitment of letting Him remain the Lord of our life that we will receive God’s gift of grace.

Have a great day HOLDING THE RIGHT STUFF!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Jonah