Our Scripture reading today is Luke 18:22-23.
Verse 23, "And when he heard this, he was very sorrowful: for he was very rich."
I remember hearing or reading this question: "What would I be worth if I lost all my material possessions?" It is a sobering question because no one wants to lose everything. The Lord Jesus poses a challenge to this individual because Jesus knows this mans heart. He knew that materialism was already a big problem. There was a challenge given to this young man to love God more than money or things. We see clearly from verse 23 that he failed the test. He was really an idolater. Money was his god.
Where do you find yourself this morning? Do you have possessions or do they have you? While there is nothing wrong with having wealth, it is very important that we understand Who gave it to us and how we should use it. There are many Christians today who have allowed a career or some job to direct them away from the will of God. They are no longer in church or rarely attend. They once were serving he Lord and now that is a distant memory. I came across this powerful quote this morning. “Think not, therefore, as many do, that there is no other hell but poverty, no better heaven than abundance.” (Trapp)