Perception matters.

What we believe matters.

What we believe will shape how we see, and ultimately, it will shape what we do. This becomes evident under pressure, doesn’t it? Have you found yourself doing or thinking something that you thought you’d already dealt with during this quarantine?? Yeah, me too. I’ve heard myself say a few things that surprised even me, and I realized – dude – I’ve got some work to do. I am a hot mess sometimes.

This morning I read the familiar story of the rich young ruler that came to Jesus and asked Him what he needed to do to inherit eternal life (see Mark 10:17-31). You remember the scene – Jesus told the young man that he lacked one thing – he needed to sell everything and give it to the poor, then he would have treasure in heaven. Only then could he genuinely follow Jesus. Remember his response?

He went away sad.

Why? Because he had “great wealth.”

Contrast this with the parable in Matthew 13:44 –

“The kingdom of heaven is like a treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his JOY went and sold all that he had and bought that field.”

One dude goes away sad; the other goes away in joy. What was the difference?

Perception.

Belief.

Both were presented with real treasure, but only one of them recognized it.

Can you hear me hollering?? Y’all! Jesus is the treasure!

Perception.

Belief.

There’s one small detail that speaks volumes in the story of the rich young ruler. Verse 21 says, “Jesus looked at him and loved him.” And yet, he still went away sad. Why? Because he perceived that what he had was worth more than the One who loved him. He believed that his wealth was of greater value than following Jesus.

Who are we more alike today, the rich young ruler or the man who discovered the treasure in a field?

Let’s be very deliberate about this quarantine season and let’s make every effort to make the most of it. Let’s courageously ask God to reveal to us our faulty perceptions and beliefs. May we JOYFULLY rid ourselves of anything and everything that would hinder us from obtaining THE treasure – Jesus Himself. I want to come out of this crazy season with a renewed fire and passion for God and His Word, don’t you?

#letsdothis

#wedowhatwebelieve

#checkyourbeliefs

#JesusISworthit