Clear Decks

Our problem is that we get comfortable in the security of what has worked in the past. But Paul says, “Brothers, I do not consider myself yet to have taken hold of it. But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.”

Matthew 13:44-46 [ is an example] of bold responses to opportunities that come our way:

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.

This is consistent with something you often hear from financial advisors: if you want to prosper, the first thing you need to do is get rid of your clutter... Go through everything you have and clean out whatever you are not using or no longer need — sell it or give it away.

Ultimately, all we have — our money, possessions, time and talents — belong to God. He has the right at anytime to call on us to use those for His purposes or even to leave them behind in order to do a new thing.