Mark 8:36 – What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?
Perhaps, more than any other verse, the Lord has used this verse to keep me focused (not that I have never temporarily lost proper focus). This scripture grabs me. In the end, we all will stand before Him and answer to Him. (Romans 14:10-12) Praise God for His grace. Ultimately there is only one question of highest importance and that question is “Have I loved and served God through Jesus Christ.” (Acts 4:12, 1 Timothy 2:5) If the answer is “no” then it matters not if I make millions, or have served millions, or have become powerful in business and of great influence. It doesn’t matter if I have done a million good deeds and if everyone thinks I am great if, when I stand before the Lord Jesus He says to me “…I never knew you…” (Matthew 7:21-23) That prospect for me, for those I love and for those I know, is horrifying!
When my sons were wee ones, I repeatedly reminded them that it is of no eternal value to have the praise of man and not of God. I would teach them this verse and would often ask them what is most important in life. They would say, with the full enthusiasm of a child “Jesus!” Yes, I told them this from very young. Remembering their sweet faces and lovely voices in response is one of my greatest memories. I also have, and will, tell this to anyone who will listen. Jesus, what we do with Jesus, is ultimately, the only eternal thing that matters.
There are no parties in hell. No one in hell is concerned about power. There is only suffering. But in Heaven, there is no suffering, only the love and rule of God. I want to be in heaven. It is my highest goal for myself and for all I love and know. So Family, what is the most important thing in our lives? What do we burn for? If it is Christ, we will have what we burn for. If it is not Christ, we may achieve anything and everything else, and then burn for it.
Seek God, with all that we are (Mark 12:30), and our place with Him is sure and secure. Truly, with all that is within me, I hope we all eternally party…in heaven (Revelation 19:6-9). That’s the best! That’s the sure destiny for all who love and serve God through Jesus. Praise our loving and good God! Embrace Him and find that He is embracing you. Praise God!
Psalm 150:6 – Let everything that has breath praise the Lord. Praise the Lord!
Micah 7:7 – But as for me, I watch in hope for the Lord, I wait for God my Savior; my God will hear me.
Micah 6:8 – He has shown You, O man, what is good; And what does the Lord require of You but to do justly, to love mercy, And to walk humbly with Your God.