Jesus said to him, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.
Matt 19: 21-22
Sometimes we ask God to change this or to change that. We say we want more of you God or I want to be more diligent or more studious but are we prepared for the sacrifices that come as a result of wanting to change. Even on a practical level -going back to school, sending more time with family, cooking healthier instead of eating out – the old way of life has to shift and some things will be abandoned.
The young man in Matthew 19 was prepared to follow Christ or so he thought. He had kept all his commandments from his youth. He was sure he was ready to take that step. But Christ required something more of him; something of which he had not even thought. That last step with his undoing. There is no way that we can know exactly what we will be asked to do when we decide to take on a bigger challenge but we must be prepared that no matter what He asks, we will be willing to give it up.
Do we hold fast to the things and comfort that our lives have brought us? The verse mentions that the young man had great possessions. No doubt he was proud of them and had accumulated them over many years. Do we see at that critical moment exactly what is in our hearts? It is easier to say “This is what I have always done”, to stay in a place where there is no need for extra effort, no chance of failing or being rejected.
Change can come in many forms. It can look like forgiving someone who hurt us. Moving to a new place. Stepping out and working on that God given talent. Choosing to come out of situations or behaviours that pull us down. Learning something new. Let me say this, “Change may not be easy.” Sometimes it is just plain hard. But a change ordained by God has such rich benefits.
Are we ready for the change we say we want? Because things will be shifted. Life won’t look the same on the other side. It may even be unnerving. His grace, though, is thoroughly sufficient for whatever lies ahead.
2 Cor 12:9 And He said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for My strength is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore most gladly I will rather boast in my infirmities, that the power of Christ may rest upon me.
by Marisse Cropper
Sisters' Keeper 
I couldn’t agree with you more Marisse. We want change but we don’t always want the hot fire that will mold us into something newer and brighter. We read the story of Job and nod our heads in agreement because yes, he lost everything but gained even more; but how many of us would truly want to lose our homes, our families, our money, our friends? In the end, I will hold on to your words: A change ordained by God has such rich benefits, and His grace is indeed thoroughly sufficient for whatever lies ahead. Amen!
LikeLike
Thanks Gale for taking the time to comment. We really must hold on to God in everything. I,myself, have not always welcomed change with open arms :). Be encouraged and may God continue to bring you His blessing and favour.
LikeLike