When Making a Difference Seems Impossible
These things that are impossible with people are possible with God – Jesus
A successful young leader was talking to Jesus, seeking to move from being merely success-driven to a life of eternal significance. But what he heard from Jesus seemed difficult, seemingly impossible and he walked away sad. Ever find yourself feeling that way – something in your life seems impossible – that there’s got to be more to life than just success?
Personal Success vs. Goodness
Jesus was coaching a young leader in this story, found in Luke 18:18-34, asking questions to help him discern the distinction between personal “success” and the broader significance of “goodness” with its higher life purpose. The shift for this leader needed to take place on two levels:
First, Jesus asked him to use his success not just to add value to himself, but to add value to others (the poor);
Second, he was asked to shift from following his own agenda (personal kingdom building), to following Jesus’ agenda (building the Kingdom of God).
Eternal ROI
Wow, at first glance that seems to require the huge sacrifice of all that he had, which caused this young leader to walk away feeling sad for it seemed to him, and to Jesus’ disciples too – impossible. But Jesus isn’t asking for, nor prescribing a life of poverty. He’s actually promising a significant return on investment greater than any worldly success, “I assure you that everyone who has given up house or wife or brothers or parents or children, for the sake of the Kingdom of God, will be repaid many times over in this life, and will have eternal life in the world to come.” When we follow Jesus’ lead and agenda (the Kingdom of God), our offerings accomplish so much more – it’s a fish and loaves kind of thing.
Good to know, tougher to do, right!?! Whether your feeling that something’s impossible, or you passionately desire to shift from success to the significance of “the greater good” that Jesus’ promised, give me a call at 909-936-6886 and schedule a free introductory appointment. Together we’ll help you discover that these things are possible with God and declare “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.” (Phil. 4:13)
