One Huge Decision

“There is still one thing you lack,” Jesus said. “Sell all you have and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” But when the man heard this, he became sad because he was very rich. Luke 18:22-23

Life had been good to this rich young leader. He had a successful career and a strong reputation. He was used to being treated with respect and having what he said taken seriously. He had every advantage money could buy.

Then he encountered Jesus. He knew every important person in his community, so he wanted to know Jesus too. He knew Jesus’ reputation for wise teaching, so he asked him what he had to do to make his life complete. When Jesus told him to live a life of integrity, the rich young man confidently told Jesus he was already doing that. Then Jesus pulled the rug out from under him when he said, “Sell all you have and give the money to the poor.”

That didn’t sit well with this young man. He was used to being rich. He liked being self-sufficient, and he liked the advantages prosperity gave him. How could he give it all away? How could he trust a man who had no earthly possessions? How could he ever explain to his friends what he did and why he did it?

But then again, how could he refuse to say yes to the greatest man who ever lived?

This was the defining moment of the young man’s life. Sadly, he decided that the price of following Jesus was too high, and we never hear about him again. With this one decision, his journey toward God appeared to be over.

When Jesus asks you to do something, remember that your decision will go a long way in determining your legacy with him.

Lord, help me to make decisions that enhance my legacy with you.