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Matthew 19:21 “If you want to be perfect, go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
Reading the Bible requires reading it in context. The text was originally written for those who spoke a different language, had little of the technology we have today, and whose culture was quite different from ours. As such, reading the Scriptures often requires asking the who-what-when-where-why-how kinds of questions.
For example, who is Jesus speaking to in this encounter? He’s speaking to a young, wealthy man who came to Jesus asking a question. Jesus isn’t speaking to a large crowd. He’s speaking to one specific person — “if you want to be perfect, go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor…” Jesus knew this man would struggle to give up his wealth.
So yes, Jesus was speaking to a young, wealthy man. He may or may not be inviting you to give up all your possessions. However, Jesus is inviting you to surrender something in order to more fully follow Him. What may He be inviting you to surrender to Him today?
READING & PRAYERS:
MATTHEW 19:16-22 (also read the commentary notes in your Study Bible of choice.)
QUESTION: What is something deep beneath the surface in your life in which God may be inviting you to surrender to Him?
REAL LIFE PRACTICE: Are you doing too much?Practice slowing down and living life at the pace of your soul by utilizing the One Minute Pause app at least twice daily. The app is free, and is available on iPhone and Android devices.
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, I know there is probably a lot deep beneath the surface in my life I may not be aware of. I also know it may be painful to have all of it rooted out. Nevertheless, I know it is Your will to refine me, mold me, and shape me more into Your likeness. Today, I pray that You do what only You can do to root up anything in me which is offensive to You. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
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