Fields and Pearls

Daily Reading: Matthew 13

Scripture Focus: The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field.  Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it. (Matthew 13.44-46)

Devotional Thought: Who doesn’t love shopping for antiques?  Antiques have become big business in the last few years.  There are even shows on T.V. that are dedicated to finding, selling, and buying antiques. Many people have sold whatever they had just to get or buy an antique that is meaningful to them.   What if you found a rare antique that you just had to have? Would you sell something else to buy it? 

Jesus told the story of a man who finds treasure in the ground and buys the whole field where the treasure is buried!  That must have been some treasure.  Another man, a merchant, finds a pearl and sells everything to buy it. Wow! That must have been some pearl. 

Is your salvation worth so much to you that you would give everything to obtain it?

Here’s the great thing: Our salvation is free, but do not make the mistake of thinking it is cheap. Jesus shed his own blood for our sins so that we might be saved.  He is the buried treasure. He is the pearl of great price!  What are you willing to do to make an investment in his Kingdom? Is the Kingdom of Heaven that important to you?  I can assure you today that being a part of the Kingdom of Heaven is worth the investment and will always have great returns, not only in this life but also in the life to come. 

Cheryl Young

Prayer: Lord, you once asked, "What can a man give in exchange for his soul?"  I know what you gave in exchange for my soul.  You gave your life!  Lord, I leave all worldly treasure behind to seek you with all my heart and soul.  Amen.

Psalm of the Day: Psalm 85.1-7

1 LORD, you were favorable to your land; you restored the fortunes of Jacob.

2 You forgave the iniquity of your people; you covered all their sin. Selah

3 You withdrew all your wrath; you turned from your hot anger.

4 Restore us again, O God of our salvation, and put away your indignation toward us!

5 Will you be angry with us forever? Will you prolong your anger to all generations?

6 Will you not revive us again, that your people may rejoice in you?

7 Show us your steadfast love, O LORD, and grant us your salvation.