Jesus’ Wealth Warning: Will Your Money Keep You Out of Heaven?預覽

These teachings are so difficult, but here’s how we can do it

Jesus’ teachings are hard — impossibly hard.

Each reading in this series has stretched us beyond our natural instincts. Giving to the poor, rejecting worldly success, surrendering wealth, and giving up everything to follow Christ — these commands seem unattainable.

But that’s exactly the point.

Jesus never expected us to do this in our own strength. In fact, He makes it clear that we can’t.

“Without me, you can do nothing.” – John 15:5

So, how do we live out these radical teachings?

First, keep perspective that we are just passing through:

“But our citizenship is in heaven. And we eagerly await a Savior from there, the Lord Jesus Christ.” – Philippians 3:20

We struggle with Jesus’ commands because we are still attached to this world.

We cling to success, security, and comfort because we forget that this life is temporary. But when we fix our eyes on eternity, everything changes. What once seemed like sacrifice becomes investment. Giving up temporary things for eternal rewards makes perfect sense.

Are you living like a citizen of heaven, or are you too comfortable in this world?

Second, do not conform to the pattern of this world, but renew your mind and transform your thinking:

“Do not conform to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind.” – Romans 12:2a

The world tells us to chase success, hold onto our wealth, and live for ourselves. But Jesus calls us to the opposite. The only way to follow Him fully is to let God change how we think.

Jesus’ teachings feel unnatural to us because our thinking is so shaped by the world. Once we realize that our citizenship is in heaven and that the ways of the world are not what we are called to follow, then we can change.

And the starting point for that change is to remove all that distracts and draw closer to God, through His word, through prayer and through fellowship with other believers.

Are you ready to change your way of thinking?

Then, as the third step to finding success in following even the most difficult of Jesus’ teachings is to rely on Jesus Christ himself for the strength you need. You can’t do it alone, but through his strength, the impossible becomes possible.

“I can do all this through him who gives me strength.” – Philippians 4:13

We often quote this verse for motivation, but it is much more than that. The Apostle Paul teaches this because he learned to be content in every circumstance — not because of his own willpower, but because Christ strengthened him.

Do you feel weak? Do these teachings seem impossible?

That’s okay. Jesus isn’t asking you to do this alone.

Ask Him for help. Rely on His strength and make the impossible become possible, in every day of your life.

In Christ, you can do this. Now go let your light shine!

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This reading plan was difficult, no doubt. As follow-up, may I suggest that you next read the plan entitled: ”Managing Money & Wealth – What the Bible Says.” Together with this plan, you will be left with a clear idea of how to move forward on issues of money & wealth. Alternatively, explore additional readings like these by searching for "Roland Heersink" in the YouVersion app or visiting our website.

Blessings to you!