The 5% club

Last night I preached a message to end a series entitled with abandon. We talked about living with abandon, and what that looks like. In this particular sermon we looked at the rich young ruler in Mark 10. I read something in studying for that sermon that moved me. When we have heard that story we picture, at least I picture, and would imagine most of us picture Jesus judgmentally and harshly telling him to sell everything. But Mark says Jesus looked at him, and loved him. Jesus looked at him with love. Love, knowing exactly what he was going to do, still looked at him with love. Jesus knew he was going to pick his money over Him, yet He still loved him.

Bill Hybels says it is relatively easy for a Christian to give 95% of themselves to Christ, it is the other 5% that is difficult. I agree. It is that 5% that differentiates between good Christians, and out of control Christians. But it is also that 5% that determines how happy we are. The rich young ruler walked away sad according to verse 22. There are many of us who wont let go of that 5% and as a result we dont find that exact place God has for us.

So my question is for all of us is what is that 5% in your life? What is that competes for the affections of your heart? Jesus said in Matt 6 where your heart there your treasure will be, so what is it that keeps you from God? I was talking with a close friend of mine Pastor Jimmy Abrams. Jimmy pointed out that the older we get, and the higher our responsibility the more difficult it is to let go of the 5%. So dont be a part of the 5% club. Cut it now before it becomes more difficult.

I hope you are enjoying this blog. Please interact with it, I would love to hear what God is speaking to you.