Day 18: Jesus and the Rich Young Ruler
Letting Go to Follow Christ
Scripture Reading: Matthew 19:16-30
"Jesus told him, 'If you want to be perfect, go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.'" (Matthew 19:21, NLT)
Reflection: The Cost of Discipleship
The story of the rich young ruler is both compelling and challenging. This young man approaches Jesus with a sincere question: “What good deed must I do to have eternal life?” Though he has lived a morally upright life, Jesus identifies the one thing holding him back—his attachment to wealth.
Jesus’ response is radical: He calls the man to sell everything, give to the poor, and follow Him. This was not just about money; it was about the man’s heart. His wealth had become an obstacle to fully surrendering to God. The man’s sorrowful departure shows how difficult it can be to let go of the things we hold dear, even when they prevent us from following Christ.
This story invites us to examine our own lives. What are we holding onto that keeps us from fully embracing Jesus? Discipleship requires not just outward obedience but a heart willing to let go of anything that stands in the way of God’s will.
Personal Reflection:
This story always challenges me to reflect on my own attachments. There have been times when I’ve resisted surrendering something to God because I was afraid of losing control or comfort. Yet, each time I’ve let go, I’ve found that God’s blessings far outweigh what I thought I was giving up. This passage reminds me that true freedom and joy come from trusting Jesus completely.
Application: Surrendering to Jesus
Letting go of earthly attachments is a necessary step in following Christ. Here are practical ways to live out this call:
Identify Your Attachments: Reflect on what might be competing for your devotion to God. It could be wealth, success, relationships, or even comfort. Ask God to reveal these areas to you.
Practice Generosity: Start by giving freely to others. Whether it’s your time, resources, or talents, generosity helps loosen the grip of materialism and fosters trust in God’s provision.
Trust God Completely: Letting go requires faith. Trust that God’s plan for you is better than anything you might cling to.
Follow Jesus Daily: Discipleship is a daily commitment. Seek to prioritize God in your decisions, relationships, and actions, continually realigning your heart with His.
Action Step:
Take a moment to write down one thing you feel attached to that might be hindering your relationship with God. Pray about it, and consider a concrete step you can take to loosen its hold, whether by giving, sharing, or letting go.
Prayer:
Lord Jesus, thank You for calling me to follow You. Help me to identify and surrender anything that holds me back from fully embracing Your will. Teach me to trust in Your promises and to find my treasure in You alone. May my life reflect complete devotion to You, and may I always choose You above all else. Amen.