The clear point made in Luke 18:18-30 is that we can do all the right things and be the best person in the world but still not be good enough unless we follow Jesus. The rich ruler in this passage was sad because it would be hard to give up what he had on earth to follow Jesus. The same concept is true today. Those who have it all right now have a tougher time giving it all up to follow Jesus.
One must give it all up and follow Jesus to be saved and receive the true treasure of life eternal. Many things can stand between us and in accepting the Lord; pride, position, family, friends, and the love of money are just a few.
The Jewish concept during the time of this passage was that God’s favor led to earthly riches and poverty was God’s punishment. They didn’t understand how it could be possible to be saved but Jesus told them that God makes the impossible possible! He sees the big picture and if we put our attention on Him and what He can do, then we will build eternal treasures in heaven.
Having a changed heart by living a life that matters for God’s purpose takes work and sacrifice but little by little it can be done. Just know that one day at a time that what seemed impossible can become possible. The Spirit of God can bring us to a new level if we open the door and go through.
If we are worried so much about what we need to do and not aware of what God can do, our true potential will not be realized. Worry takes away our freedom but confidence in God gives a lift as if on eagle’s wings.
