"I’m Rich!"
By Erik Farstad
December 3, 1997
"What good will it be for a man if he gains the whole world, yet forfeits his soul?" Matthew 16:26a
I want you to think about something for a moment. Take some time and write out your own definition(s) of living. Seriously, take some time and do this.
...Done yet...
Don’t read on until you have done so.
OK. What did you say? Your definition plays a huge part in how you live your life. Is your definition of living based on God’s view or a worldly view? Is your living found in people or the collection of things? What is the point of your life? Many times our views or understandings reflect or direct our actions. Now ask yourself; are you living out your definition? Or are there areas that need improvement?
Consider this for a moment. You are the riches, monetarily, person on earth. You share your wealth with all the needy people on the planet, while still enjoying a wealth of your own. Only to find out that you all soon perish clutching your gold. Now you are that same rich person, but use your resources to further the Kingdom of God. Due to your focus being on heavenly gains and not worldly, those that would have perished now have an opportunity, a life in Christ.
Here’s the good and exciting news....YOU’RE ALL RICH!!!
Some of you may be blessed monetarily. Perhaps you are a great teacher or instructor. Or maybe you have been given the gift of music. Whatever the case, the Lord has blessed everyone with riches. I ask you this: Where are you depositing your riches? In the world? Or in other people, to further the kingdom of God?
You all have the riches of life to share with others. You can tuck it away and pursue other riches of this world, but to a needless end (for they will all burn in the end). Or you can claim the power and riches that Christ gave you from his death on the cross and share it with others! You decide.
Let this be your prayer today:
Dear Lord, I do not want to forfeit this new life you have given me. May I burn with desire for heavenly gains, to share the riches you have given me with those around me. The "things" around me will fade away but your love and life will last forever. Let your Spirit lead me to renounce and reject that of the world that I am putting before you. May you and your kingdom profit by my actions. Lord I choose to live for you today, to glorify you my Father in Heaven. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
How are you spending your riches?
In Him, "E"