The Value of the Kingdom

via TJC

“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.” Matthew 13:44-46 (ESV)

Have you ever wanted something so badly, you were willing to do whatever it took to get it? As a child, I recall saving up money for weeks to buy Super Mario Brothers 3. As an adult I’ve sacrificed time with my family to get a promotion. Was I happy when I got what I wanted? Yes…at least I thought so. Then in a while I was saving and sacrificing for the next shiny new thing that I was sure I was supposed to want.

The kingdom of God isn’t flashy. Pursuing Christ with all of your body, mind, and soul isn’t going to get you noticed by others, nevermind make anyone jealous. The kingdom of God remains hidden for most people who cannot see its value. However, those who comprehend the value of the kingdom will sacrifice anything to obtain it (Phil. 3:7-8).

Most stories about treasure focus on the value of the treasure, but Jesus puts the entire emphasis on the price the men were ready to pay to get it. The kingdom is the real treasure, and we should be ready to sacrifice everything else in our lives for it.

Daily Battle Order:

Consider and Pray - What have I sacrificed for the sake of Christ? Have I sacrificed anything at all, or has my investment in His kingdom been the bare minimum required to secure a fire insurance policy?