Dear Explorer,
Read Luke 6:24-26
What are the four conditions that Jesus warned us about?
Is Jesus saying that we shouldn't be rich, or well-fed, or happy, or popular?
I believe that Jesus was trying to break up the current belief that if you have these four things, it must mean that God is pleased with you and blessing you. It is still a very popular belief today. And I believe it makes God sad!
Let's look at Joe who just got a promotion at work, spends his weekends at the beach and drives a fancy car. And let's look at Josh who just lost his job, has his knee in a cast, and drives a 10-year-old clunker. Which one is right with God?
I hope you said that you can't tell – because I believe that's what Jesus is teaching.
I believe Jesus is teaching us to watch out if we are rich, because riches don't last or satisfy. Watch out about prioritizing good food, it may not always be available. Watch out because happiness is based on “what's happening” in your life and is constantly changing. And popularity is really fickle. One day the crowds love you, and the next day you are out. Don't put your trust in unstable things. Put your goals and ambitions in pleasing God – not on things.
Be careful, watch out, open your eyes – don't just adopt the world's way of looking at life. Dare to ask: What does God want for me? How can I best please Him?
Choosing God's way may be filled with blessings and peace and love and joy. But it may also include a path of suffering or persecution.
So why choose to follow Jesus if there's no guarantee of a “good” life with financial prosperity and health?
I have chosen to follow Jesus because He promises to walk with me and guide me through this life – whatever life brings. And He promises to give me peace and love and joy despite what's happening all around me. And He's got a great retirement plan – Heaven with Him for all eternity. He's the only One who can forgive me and set me free from my sins. For these reasons, and many, many more, I am determined to serve Him no matter what life brings.
Have you made your decision to follow Him no matter what your future holds?