The Need to Unload What Hinders
ICS Daily Devotions
Mark 10:24-27 (NKJV) And the disciples were astonished at His words. But Jesus answered again and said to them, “Children, how hard it is for those who trust in riches to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” And they were greatly astonished, saying among themselves, “Who then can be saved?” But Jesus looked at them and said, “With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible.”
In reading this passage, we must remember that the twelve disciples weren’t poor before they were called to follow Jesus. Some of them, such as Simon Peter, James, Andrew, and John, were fishermen and business owners with boats and workers, while Matthew was a wealthy tax collector. Therefore, they were greatly astonished when they heard Jesus say it was difficult for the rich to be saved. They were concerned because they weren’t poor.
Camels were used to transport goods in Jesus’ days, and they were laden with goods on both sides. Therefore, a camel cannot pass through some passageways as narrow as the eye of a needle unless its owner unloads everything from it. Loading and unloading the goods would require significant effort. Likewise, the rich can’t be saved unless they are willing to lay down everything they hold dear to their lives, which often becomes like a god to them or something they trust in. This young Jewish ruler couldn’t let go of the burdens of riches, the power that comes with them, and his trust in mammon to follow Jesus wholeheartedly.
In verse 27, Jesus assured the disciples that as long as the heart is right, all things are possible with God. God’s Word will ensure that we have the right heart and attitude towards money. We can choose to let go of our trust in money and our love of it. Our trust in mammon will diminish once we have a heart that worships God instead of mammon. Therefore, it is possible for the rich to be saved because we will receive a “new heart” once we are saved.
When we have a “new heart” that loves God, and are taught by the Word that He is the source of our lives and provisions, we will be good stewards of His blessings. We will not hoard money in our lives but be willing to do everything taught in the Bible about honouring God with our money through tithing and giving freewill offerings that include helping the poor and needy. The motive of giving is to honour God, look after the needs of His church and be a willing conduit to bless those in need.
Sermon Series: Money – The truth shall set you free!
