Wealth and Rewards Pt.2

As followers of Jesus, we must be willing to forsake anything that stands between us and fully obeying Christ. This could include wealth, relationships, jobs, possessions, or anything else we treasure. While this level of commitment is difficult, Jesus promises to abundantly reward those sacrifices, both in this life and especially in eternity. He gives us new relationships, provisions, and blessings to replace what we surrendered, often multiplied a hundred times over. Additionally, when we choose to obey Christ no matter what it costs us, we will likely face persecution in some form. But God uses persecution to refine us, unify the church, and draw us closer to him. Our momentary afflictions now pale in comparison to the infinite glory we will share with Christ for eternity. The values of God's kingdom are very different from the world's values. Pursuing worldly success often puts us last in God's estimation, while sacrificing worldly things to serve God makes us great in his eyes. To inherit eternal life, we must turn from sin, put our faith in Jesus as Lord and Savior, and follow him wholeheartedly no matter the cost. Salvation is a free gift but discipleship is costly. We must be ready to forsake all for the sake of obeying and glorifying Christ.