JUNE 20, Matthew 19:16-22

A young man asked Jesus what he should do to have eternal life. In response, Jesus told him to obey God’s commandments not to murder or commit adultery, not to steal or lie, and to honour his parents and love his neighbours. The young man proudly answered that he had done all these since he was a child, so he asked Jesus, “what else do I lack?” He thought that by his good works and through his own righteousness, he could earn points to get to heaven. I used to think this way too. I was quite sure that by attending church and obeying God’s commandments, I would have eternal life in heaven. What else is there to do?

If you have this same question, Jesus’ answer to the young man will speak to you too. Jesus told him to sell all his possessions, give the money to the poor, and after that to follow Him. Does it sound like a lot to sacrifice? The young man was very rich and owned many things! He went away very sad because he couldn’t give up everything and follow Jesus. But is Jesus also expecting us to sell all our belongings to follow Him? Of course not!

Jesus’ reply to the young man tested his belief in God and revealed his heart. The young man loved his riches more. He appeared to be a good man but he did not truly believe and trust in God. His trust was in his riches, and his belief was in himself and not in God.

Dear reader, eternal life is from God. Doing good works will not earn you eternal life. Examine your faith before God. How do you know if you truly believe and have eternal life? You would confess you are a sinner with no strength to save yourself from sins, and that only believing in Jesus can save you. You would also be willing to give up what is most precious to you, because now you cherish the treasures of heaven more.

Fill in the blanks to learn how we are saved:

“For by __________ are ye saved through __________; and that not of __________: it is the gift of God: Not of __________, lest any man should __________.”  Ephesians 2:8,9.

Thought: Do I still trust in my own abilities to gain eternal life? Am I willing to trust in God and give up what is most precious to me?

Prayer: Father in heaven, help me to examine my heart and grant me the faith to believe that Jesus alone can save me. I cannot save myself. Help me to love You above all else, with all my heart. In Jesus’ name, Amen.