“Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” (Mark 10:17).
Having thought goodness and morality led to eternal life, the young man was stunned at Jesus’ response. “Go, sell all you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me.” Sadly, this young man rejected Jesus because he loved and trusted his possessions and morality more than anything else.
This is so true in our world today. I made a hospital visit to a dear friend of mine who had just been informed that there was nothing more medically to help him. I listened as his doctor told him that he needed to get his affairs in order and most importantly find peace with God. My heart grieved, for this man had put faith in his own goodness.
Before I could say anything, my friend said, “I have lived my life trying to do the right thing, treating people fairly and with respect, helping where I could. But it isn’t enough is it? What am I missing?”
My answer, “Jesus!”
He confessed his sins and called on the name of the Lord to save him. Then he asked, “What do I do now?” During the remaining three weeks of his life, he told his family, friends, and anyone else how Jesus had saved him from sin.
PRAYER PROMPT: Lord, may we boldly proclaim that Jesus is the only hope for salvation.
Kevin Carrothers serves as pastor of Rochester FBC and president of IBSA.
Pastors, join the IBSA Pastors’ Prayer Room on Facebook. E-mail oweaver7307@gmail.com.