Uncertainty to Assurance: Giving and Gaining - Part 3

By the time most adults hit their mid-thirties, the realities of life have begun to sink in. Most often we used self-deception to keep these realities at bay. We do this to avoid the normal pain each of us must face just for living. One reality that hits hard is that we all make mistakes. These mistakes can be costly, not only physically or financially, but emotionally.

The consequence for making mistakes is often embarrassment. Anger is a common response that tries to hide grief and sorrow. So many people think their big mistake was in their choice of a career or spouse. Instead of facing mistakes, we frequently use a form of self-deception by believing, "Someday my life will change, things will get better."

Choose to change by giving up self-deception. While mistakes are common, they can produce positive good. Be honest. How is this person or job beneficial, even a blessing? God is in the business of giving you hope, a change of heart, and a new spirit. Be open to what God can provide.  

Uncertainty to Assurance: Giving and Gaining - Part 2

The majority of young adults hit the streets of life with determination to be successful and make it to the top of their career field. It is God's desire that we reach our full potential. However becoming self-absorbed with success may result in losing perspective on the purpose of life God designed especially for you.

When a wealthy young man asked Jesus what he had to do to receive eternal life, he wasn't prepared for the answer. "Sell all you have and give the money to the poor, and you will have riches in heaven; then come and follow me." Jesus wants you to care enough to pass on to others in whatever way he directs the knowledge, wisdom, and skills you've acquired.

Jesus said in Luke 18:27, "What is impossible with man is possible with God." Mother Teresa of India defined for all people what it means to care enough, to sacrifice enough, so that others could share in God's bounty. Her life is a contemporary example on how to avoid self-absorption and stagnation. It's a worthy, godly choice.  

Uncertainty to Assurance: Giving and Gaining - Part 1

The account of the rich ruler in Luke 18 is important for all people regardless of wealth, power, or position. Possessions were not enough to provide lasting fulfillment. This man was seeking assurance that success and wealth could not generate. He realized that success was not enough to sustain indefinitely a sense of joy and peace.  

          This individual was standing at a crossroad in need of change. He looked to Jesus for direction. When Jesus told him to give away all he possessed to the poor and follow him, he became very sad because that was a choice he refused to make. He failed to understand that all his talents and gifts, his wealth and power came from God.

          Your hope for eternal life and immortality comes from what you can give away, primarily giving your life to Christ Jesus, then following him. God intended for you to give to the next generation and to others your knowledge and wisdom, your love and faith that were God's gifts to you. Jesus said this was laying up treasures and wealth in heaven.