The blessings of following Jesus are eternal, while the riches of this world are temporary, like a vapor. The Psalmist gives insight into the brevity of life. Psalm 103:15Our days on earth are like grass; like wildflowers, we bloom and die. [1] When I delivered the evening message at Bible camp a few weeks ago, I placed a few grains of sand in the hands of the campers. To help them better understand eternity, I asked them to imagine that one of those sand grains represented their lifetime. In contrast, all the other sand grains in the world symbolized eternity.
What we do in this lifetime affects our entire eternity. Will I follow the world on the broad path or place my faith in Jesus and take the more difficult narrow road? Regardless of who we are, we are all faced with that choice. Yes, the road Jesus lays out for us is not easy and requires us to surrender our free will so He can lead us. Romans 8:14 For all who are led by the Spirit of God are children of God. [2]
Believers are Wealthy in Spiritual Blessings
Jesus encountered a wealthy man who asked what he must do to inherit eternal life. Then Jesus responded by posing a question regarding the observance of the commandments. The man indicated that he had obeyed them since his youth. Then Jesus stated that there was one thing he lacked. Luke 18:32 Sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” [3]
The man left feeling sad because he was rich. When the disciples asked who could be saved, Jesus indicated that what is impossible for people is possible with God. Pondering all that had just taken place, Peter made a comment. Luke 18:28 We’ve left our homes to follow you.” 29 “Yes,” Jesus replied, “and I assure you that everyone who has given up house or wife or brothers or parents or children, for the sake of the Kingdom of God, 30 will be repaid many times over in this life, and will have eternal life in the world to come.” [4]
Blessings of Eternal Life
Beyond present blessings, Jesus promises “eternal life in the age to come,” the greatest reward of following God. While the world offers fleeting pleasures, Christ offers an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading. Earthly sacrifices seem insignificant compared to the joy and communion with God that await us in eternity. This promise anchors our souls, offering hope beyond trials and reminding us that our true home and reward are in Jesus, not earthly possessions. It empowers us to live with courage, generosity, and faith, knowing obedience brings us closer to our destiny.
The blessings of following Jesus extend beyond future hope to a transformed present, culminating in the ultimate gift of eternal life. When my mother’s father was old and his health was failing, he knew his life was coming to an end. The day before he died, the Lord gave him a glimpse of eternity when he saw two angels sitting on his bed. His life was fading away, but a new life awaited him. To find out more, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/the-cost-of-discipleship
[1-4] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.