Week 7
“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.
“Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.” —Matt. 13:44–46
“He who seeks his life will lose it; and he who loses his life for my sake will find it.” —Matt. 10:39
God’s kingdom is a treasure so valuable it’s worth everything. But to gain it, we must let go, giving up control, self-preservation, and our personal agenda. That’s the paradox of surrender: we give up everything, and in doing so, we gain far more than we could imagine. Joy replaces fear. Peace replaces striving. True life replaces mere existence.
When we think of surrendering all that we have, we tend to think in terms of loss—what we no longer have. But from personal experience, I testify that Jesus’s offer is the best ever made to humanity. It’s an offer only a fool would refuse, yet many do.
Reflection Questions
What do you think prevents some Christians from surrendering all to God?
If you have “sold everything” for the kingdom, what is the most challenging part of the transaction and why?
If you have not “sold everything” for the kingdom, what prevents you?
Lord, what are you teaching me in today’s reading?
Lord, what else have you said to me through thoughts, circumstances, conversations, emotions, or the work of the enemy?
Lord, what do you want me to do: At home? At work? In ministry?