Jesus makes it clear that eternity is on the line. And when the stakes are high, most of us realize that it’s time to be “all in.”
We do it all the time. When deciding on our educational path. When meeting our future spouse. When selecting our career. When opening our business.
In areas of life like this, we know that whatever we decide upon, we need to put our back into it and go for it.
Wholeheartedly.
Well, Jesus says that there will come a day when all mankind will be judged. And following that, heaven will be the eternal home of those who have been declared righteous by faith in Jesus Christ. Sadly–no, devastatingly!–for those who do not believe in Jesus there is only hell.
The stakes are most definitely high. Whatever it takes, Jesus tells us, obtain the kingdom of heaven. It’s worth everything you’ve got!
“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it” (Matthew 13:45-46, NIV).
Lord, help me never to take you, or your kingdom, lightly. You want to give me eternal life. And you have already won heaven for me. By your grace, you want to give a “pearl of great price” to me as a gift. Amazing. Send me your Spirit so that I can be all in!
Our Bible reading for Monday, January 19, is Genesis 38:1 – 39:23, Matthew 13:36-58 and Psalm 11:1-7.
Header image based on "Mabe Pearl Ring" by Rutz, CC by 2.0
pastorjeffgunn 
Our Bible reading for Monday, January 19, is Genesis 38:1 – 39:23, Matthew 13:36-58 and Psalm 11:1-7.
He answered, “The one who sowed the good seed is the Son of Man. The field is the world, and the good seed stands for the people of the kingdom. The weeds are the people of the evil one, and the enemy who sows them is the devil. The harvest is the end of the age, and the harvesters are angels. (Matthew 13:37-39 NIV)
“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field. (Matthew 13:44 NIV)
Heavenly Father, I am a sinner, not worthy of your promises. In Jesus you show me the way to all that is good in this life and the next. Help examine myself with your eyes so I can do better by you. When your kingdom comes help me to grab it with strong hands and and an open, loving heart.
The Lord is in his holy temple; the Lord is on his heavenly throne. He observes everyone on earth; his eyes examine them. The Lord examines the righteous, but the wicked, those who love violence, he hates with a passion. (Psalm 11:4-5 NIV)
~Paul Montenieri
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