Barricades...

I have been reading a bit in Matthew lately & came across the story when the wealthy man asks Jesus how to enter into His kingdom. I've read it before but this time it struck a cord with me... 

Matthew 19:16-22 (The Message) 16Another day, a man stopped Jesus and asked, "Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?" 17Jesus said, "Why do you question me about what's good? God is the One who is good. If you want to enter the life of God, just do what he tells you." 18-19The man asked, "What in particular?" Jesus said, "Don't murder, don't commit adultery, don't steal, don't lie, honor your father and mother, and love your neighbor as you do yourself." 20The young man said, "I've done all that. What's left?" 21"If you want to give it all you've got," Jesus replied, "go sell your possessions; give everything to the poor. All your wealth will then be in heaven. Then come follow me." 22That was the last thing the young man expected to hear. And so, crest-fallen, he walked away. He was holding on tight to a lot of things, and he couldn't bear to let go.

You could learn a number of lessons from these few verses but I'm gonna share how Christ convicted my heart. As Christians we are called to put God first & foremost in our lives. However, I can only speak for myself, but I've held onto bad habits & worldly things that have hindered my relationship with Christ. I've ok'd these things in my head but I know in my heart that God's been convicting of these barricades I've held onto. Jesus told the wealthy man what he already knew in his heart & still the man walked away from Jesus' offer, as stated in the last verse. I refuse to go out like he did! I know I have to make some changes in my life and while I'm apprehensive I know, that I know, that I know that I am NOT alone!

Joshua 1:9 (NLT) 9 This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.”

I pray this has encouraged you to work towards tearing down any barriers that's been hindering your relationship with Christ. We can overcome these if we truly live out this final verse.

Philippians4:13 (NLT) For I can do everything through Christ,who
gives me strength.