Learning from Jesus’ Challenge to the Rich Young Ruler
We all love the moments when Jesus encourages and uplifts—but every now and then, He speaks a hard word that pierces our hearts. One of the most sobering examples is found in Luke 18, when a wealthy religious man asks Jesus, “What must I do to inherit eternal life?”
Jesus first points to the commandments, which the man claims he has kept since childhood. But then Jesus says something unexpected—and deeply personal:
“There is still one thing you haven’t done. Sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me.” (Luke 18:22 NLT)
It’s a gut-punch moment. And it’s meant to be.
The Idol Beneath the Surface
Jesus wasn’t being harsh—He was being truthful. He saw that wealth had become this man’s identity, security, and source of pride. Despite his outward obedience, there was one thing that stood between him and full surrender: his possessions.
Jesus doesn’t ask everyone to sell everything. But He will always call out whatever competes with our allegiance to Him. For some, it’s money. For others, it’s control, comfort, recognition, or relationships. We all have that one thing we’re tempted to keep on the throne of our hearts.
A Loving Invitation
What moves me deeply about this passage is that Jesus doesn’t just say, “Give it all away.” He follows that command with an invitation:
“Then come, follow Me.”
He’s not just asking for sacrifice—He’s offering relationship. He’s not just asking us to give something up—He’s inviting us to step into something greater.
Treasure in heaven. A walk with Jesus. Life that is truly life.
The Tragedy of a Divided Heart
Verse 23 says the man “became very sad, for he was very rich.” That may be one of the saddest lines in all the Gospels. Jesus offered him eternity—and he walked away because the price seemed too high.
Let that sink in: He walked away from Jesus, not because he didn’t believe, but because he wasn’t willing to let go.
What About Us?
As I reflect on this story, I hear Jesus’ words gently searching my own heart:
“Mark, is there anything you still lack?”
Maybe you’ve felt that too. You’re doing your best to live for God, but there’s something He’s been nudging you to lay down:
- A private habit that’s begun to take root.
- A dream you’ve elevated above obedience.
- A relationship that draws you away from Christ.
- A comfort zone you’re afraid to step out of.
The truth is, we all have “one things” at different points in our journey. The question is—will we let Jesus lovingly challenge them?
Following Jesus is Always Worth It
Let me encourage you today: Whatever Jesus asks you to give up, He’s not trying to take something from you—He’s trying to set you free.
Free to follow.
Free to love.
Free to walk with Him with nothing holding you back.
Let’s not be like the rich young ruler who walked away sad. Let’s be like the disciples who dropped their nets and followed Him.
Let’s say yes—even when it costs us. Because Jesus is worth everything.
Have you ever had a “one thing” moment with God? I’d love to hear your story. Feel free to share in the comments or message me directly. Let’s keep encouraging one another to follow Jesus fully—no holding back.
