Sermon Snippet – Preparing for an Uncertain Future – Part II
INTRODUCTION – Last week when we considered this subject, we discerned the following principles from Scripture: we are to prepare in the good years for the bad times to come (Genesis 41); the only antidote to economic hardship is hard work (Proverbs 6:6-11); and we must be ready for eternity (Matthew 25:1-13). Today, let us further explore Scripture on this important topic.
1. WE NEED BALANCE IN OUR LIVES
The parable of the rich man in Luke 12:13-21 needs to be carefully evaluated. The problem is not that this man was wealthy (so was Abraham, for example). Likewise, the problem is not that he was planning for the future, for the examples of Joseph and of the ant that we studied last week clearly teach that we are to be forward-thinking of only the “many years” of this life. In verse 20, God calls him a “fool.” God is not disparaging this man’s intellect; in the Bible, a fool is someone who is uninterested in spiritual truth. In that usage, all of us have been fools. Sadly, this man was to die “this night,” and he was not prepared for the infinitely “many years” of eternity. The imbalance in his life is Christ’s cautionary tale to us all.
2. WE NEED TO CONFRONT OUR WORRIES
I often distinguish between concerns and worries. The bills have to be paid. We cannot ignore them, for they are legitimate concerns, requiring the expenditure of time, energy, and resources. However, these concerns turn into worries when they control us. In Matthew 6:25-34, Jesus addresses this vexing problem. Note the use of “thought” (verses 25, 27, 28, 31, 34). Contrast that usage with the commands “behold” (verse 26), “consider” (verse 28), and “seek” (verse 33). If we do not take purposeful action, we will be enslaved by worry and will miss the joy of God’s goodnesses to us, including “the lilies of the field.” The worrying life is an impoverished one.
3. WE NEED TO LAY UP TREASURES IN HEAVEN
As we have seen, we are to work hard and prepare for our uncertain future here on earth. Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:19-24 are not prohibitive or contradictory. He is stating what should be the obvious: we have limited time here to be ready for the unlimited time of eternity. The primary purpose of this brief life is to be certain that our eternity will be spent in heaven with the Savior. It is encouraging to know that our work for God here is called “treasure” by Him.
CONCLUSION – A song that I like includes the lyrics, “There’s a mighty judgment coming, but I might be wrong.” No, the songwriter is right! Each one of us must call upon Jesus as Savior in order to have the certainty of eternity in heaven. That decision takes away the biggest source of worry. Then, we can begin to work on our other worries by trusting in Jesus each day on the way to forever together with Him.