Giving Up Our Possessions

Luke 14:33
So then, none of you can be My disciple who does not give up all his own possessions.

At first glance, this is a scary verse. Last time I checked, I still possess a lot of stuff. I’m pretty sure all of you reading this do as well. Does this mean we are not saved?

No, it doesn’t. It is a great example, however, of the extreme importance of interpreting scripture, with scripture. You must read the entire Word of God if you truly want to understand it, as God wants it understood.

Matthew 6:19-21

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

Luke 12:34
For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

What God wants from us and what Jesus was teaching is that it is our heart that He seeks.

Do your possessions own you? Are you more concerned for them than you are for your spiritual wellbeing? Do you prefer spending time with your possessions than you do spending time in prayer, Bible reading, and in serving God?

If so, then you might want to reevaluate where you stand in God’s economy.

Jesus asked the rich, young ruler in Matthew 19:21 to give up everything literally. Jesus knew that the man had no interest in giving Him his heart, he just wanted to reap the benefits of salvation. So, Jesus gave this test knowing it would reveal to the man, his own heart. That’s why the man went away sad and grieving. His wealth was more important to him than Jesus and His kingdom.

The question to ask of ourselves is this; does Jesus have our heart?

Matthew 6:33
But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.