Deuteronomy 31:1-32:27 / Luke 12:8-34 / Psalm 78:32-55 / Proverbs 12:21-23
“Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God.” (Luke 12:21)
“Seek the Kingdom of God above all else, and He will give you everything you need. So don’t be afraid, little flock. For it gives your Father great happiness to give you the Kingdom.” (Luke 12:31-32)
As I read the scriptures for today, my heart was warmed, and I sensed God’s great love for His people. He provided for and loved them, knowing they would betray Him by worshiping idols. And He still does the same for us.
Not only did I sense His great love, I sensed a deep grief and disappointment that they and we were going to stray in our love for Him. Jesus died for the sake of relationship – both with Him and with each other. I know He places a high priority on connection and community.
Imagine loving someone to the point of giving one of your children to die so you could have a relationship with them, and then they turn around and wander away to give themselves to a lifestyle that will destroy them. Can you feel the pain of that? I can.
And because God knows all things, He sent His Son knowing we would not be faithful. He sent His Son knowing that some would reject Him, and others would receive Him. From my human perspective, I would want a guarantee that my offering would be received before I’d want to give it. But that’s not how God’s Kingdom works!
Even now, do you give only when you think what you have will be received well? Do you give because you’ll be thanked? Do you give in hopes of gaining favor with another? We cannot give in these ways. We must give because God tells us to, and with no thought of the outcome. We cannot control the response. We can only control our obedience to His voice.
And that’s what Jesus did – He obeyed His Father even though He would be rejected. This is no “sissy pants” Gospel! This is not for the faint of heart. We must be brave to follow Christ and to obey Him. Are we willing?
If we are, our Father is excited to give us all the good things of His Kingdom. Earthly wealth, or heavenly treasure? Which do you want? How do we acquire heavenly treasure? By obeying God and impacting the lives of others. It’s simple, but it will cost all you have.
Ready? Are you one who will say, “Yes!” when God asks?
