How do you profit and lose all at the same time?

The Issue with Profit

We hear the word profit and immediately think of money or something financial. We look at the definition and find the first portion stating “a financial gain, especially the difference between the amount earned and the amount spent.” However, if we study further, we see a second part of the meaning of the word profit. It is there we find the context for this scripture and this thought. The other definition of the word profit is “advantage or benefit.”

Jesus asks this question in Matthew 16:26:

“For what is a man profited if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul? Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?”

Here in this passage from Matthew, we find a familiar verse. It is one of those scriptures that most have heard, believers and non-believers alike. Here, the message provides a valuable lesson for life, the directions we consider, and those we take. The questions posed here are life-altering if taken seriously. What profit is there if someone gains the whole world but loses their very soul in the process? Here we see where the benefit or advantage portion of the definition comes into play.

In other words, what advantage or benefit is it to our life if we gain everything the world offers, fame, riches, celebrity, power, etc., and those things earned cost you eternal life with Christ? The question here to everyone is straightforward: would it be worth it? It is the view of now and later. We enjoy it now, but do we consider eternity? Do we consider the actual cost?

The Consequence

The second question is certainly as important as the first. What would a person give in exchange for their soul? Again, this merely implies, “What is your soul worth?” Do you find value in eternity, or will you only live for today? It is not that the Lord is saying it is wrong to have stuff or find great success in life. We can do both and still honor God with how we obtain it.

Hard work, sincere investment, and above-board practices are all ways to have things and simultaneously honor God. However, one who cuts corners, cheats, schemes, and hurts others to earn something does not honor God. What is the profit of such? Ultimately, it is all a loss if you have not gained Heaven.

The Truth about Profit

As we journey through life, we sometimes get distracted and pulled to the side or off the path. Simply put, we lose our way. On the surface, the lure of easy money or popularity seems attractive. However, there is a significant price tag attached. When done correctly, God does not care if we have material items, wealth, or fame, but how we gain them matters.

The idea of exchanging our very souls for something seems foolish. But, the enemy is a tremendous salesman. He can make anything look and sound good. What we must remember is that he is a LIAR. For some, a snake sunning on a rock is beautiful. However, one must not forget that beauty is also deadly when touched. Nothing this life offers is comparable to what God has promised in eternity.

Enjoy this life; live it abundantly. It is God’s gift to all. At the same time, live it for Him, let your life reflect Him, and help others see there is more. As Albert Brumley penned, “This world is not our home; we are just passing through.” Let your gain, your benefit, your advantage; let it all be in your relationship with Jesus. You cannot measure such a profit.

Have a blessed day
Pastor Andy

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