One Thing You Lack

Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “One thing you lack: go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.” But he was sad at this word, and went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions. (Mark 10:21-22)

Even the most noble of us fall short of God's glory and His righteous requirements. Our most sincere efforts to do good cannot bridge the gap between us and His standard, for our righteousness is like filthy rags compared to His. Even our valiant efforts to "give back," to show love and kindness, and come to the aid of others are insufficient at best; and our sin makes us contributors to the death, disease and suffering we're trying to relieve. There is no other way to God, to please God, or to know God than the cross. Pick up your cross and follow Jesus.

 

Our own noble works and best intentions can be an insult to the Holy Spirit. Christianity is overrun with good people doing good things. Yet, they are missing the most necessary practice of obeying the Word, looking unto Jesus, and waiting on Him. Remember, nothing good ever rises up to God from us, except faith. Every good thing comes down to us from Jesus Christ, and there is no other way. Upon realizing this, many have gone away sorrowful, back to their world, their ways, and their riches. May we choose to rejoice in His Word, sell all, and follow Him. 

 

Let's Pray - Father, Jesus is the only way to live a life pleasing to You and to be productive in the Kingdom. Today, I will pick up my cross and follow. Lead me, Sir. Thank You.