Looking back at what we left behind for Christ limits our ability
to enter His kingdom. Holding on to
pieces of our old life clouds our spiritual vision resulting in an earthbound destination
rather than a spiritual journey. To have
a true longing for and realization of heaven and to have an intimate
relationship with Christ will not happen unless we give up everything for Him.
It is impossible to live Jesus' teachings of turning the
other cheek, going another mile, not storing up earthly possessions, and loving
our enemies, just to name a few, (Matthew 5-7) unless our lives are lived seeking
and knowing the Spirit filled life is real. Earthly thinking justifies
retaliation, causes us to pass by on the other side of those in need, empowers
us to rely on our own wealth, and results in loving only ourselves. True life is discovered only when looking
beyond this world while still living in it.
We each must take this step to unlock this wonder. Only then do the things Jesus says make any sense.
The freedom, peace, and joy of the gospel are experienced when
we stop playing it safe. We must give
in, buy in, step off, step out, and dive head first into the wonder and reality
of God's miraculous gift that has nothing to do with here. His kingdom is not of this world. Following Jesus is a choice of all or none. It
is plowing the new ground of trusting only in Christ’s Way to a blessed,
abundant life regardless of our circumstances. If I look back attempting
to keep a foot in both worlds I will never experience this richness. To the
extent I seek is the extent I will find.
“No one can serve two masters. The person will hate one master and love
the other, or will follow one master and refuse to follow the other. You cannot
serve both God and worldly riches.”
Matthew 6:24
“Seek first God’s
kingdom and what God wants. Then all your other needs will be met as well.”
Matthew 6:33
“Ask, and God will give to you. Search, and you will find. Knock, and
the door will open for you. Yes, everyone who asks will receive. Everyone who
searches will find. And everyone who knocks will have the door opened.”
Matthew 7:7-8
“But the gate is small
and the road is narrow that leads to true life. Only a few people find that
road.” Matthew 7:14
But the Lord answered
her, “Martha, Martha, you are worried and upset about many things. Only one
thing is important. Mary has chosen the better thing, and it will never be
taken away from her.”
Luke 10:41-42
Father, increase our faith.
Give us a longing for You not held back by any attachment to this
physical life. Lead us to the open door
of Your incredible storehouse of spiritual blessings. In Jesus name.
Scotty Elston
Shallowater, Texas
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