Heart Problems

Everyone seems to have different opinions about what is "wrong with the world."  I have heard some claim religion is to blame for wars and conflicts, but such would be hard-pressed to argue with the biblical definition in James 1:27:  "Pure and undefiled religion before God and the Father is this: to visit orphans and widows in their trouble, and to keep oneself unspotted from the world."  There is a lot in this world which defiles heart and soul, and many things done in the name of religion are sinful in God's sight.  Therefore it is not religion itself that is the problem, but sin in the hearts of people where the issue lies.  All religions are not equal or valid in God's sight, even as the end cannot justify the means.  There is only one way to salvation and eternal life, and it is not gained through observance of a "religion" but through faith in Jesus Christ.

Jesus often said things which amazed those who followed Him.  After a rich man walked away from Jesus sad because he was unwilling to give away His possessions at Christ's command Mark 10:23 says, "Then Jesus looked around and said to His disciples, "How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God!"  Riches and abundance were often seen as favour from God, so this was a surprising revelation to His disciples.  He doubled down with a clarification in Mark 10:24:  "And the disciples were astonished at His words. But Jesus answered again and said to them, "Children, how hard it is for those who trust in riches to enter the kingdom of God!"  It is not riches themselves where the problem lies, but in our hearts.  When we have wealth we will tend to trust it and find our security in dollars rather than God and faith in His Word.  We foolishly tend to value riches of earth more than desiring treasure in heaven.

Jesus absolutely blew their minds in Mark 10:25-27:  "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." ²⁶ And they were greatly astonished, saying among themselves, "Who then can be saved?" ²⁷ But Jesus looked at them and said, "With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible."  It is impossible for a camel to pass through the eye of a sewing needle, and the suggestion it was easier to do the impossible than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God was incredible indeed.  They wondered how anyone could be saved!  Jesus told them with men it is impossible, and this is true.  No man can purchase with money the right to enter heaven or leverage his wealth to wash himself of sin.  All men, rich and poor, need forgiveness and atonement of sin through faith in Jesus Christ.  The poor man recognises his need perhaps more than the rich man who has a comfortable life.  Yet God is able to save the rich and poor, the orphan and the widow:  with God all things are possible.

I have heard this statement of Jesus applied to many situations, but the context concerns the eternal salvation of souls.  The rich young ruler who walked away sad was not without hope because with God all things are possible.  I am certain the Holy Spirit brought conviction of sin, of righteousness, and judgment, bringing the words of Jesus to remembrance.  But God would not save a man who refused to be saved.  The way of salvation through Jesus was open to the man, but it was his decision to embrace his riches or pass through the Door in faith marked with obedience.  When disaster strikes an aircraft and it lands in water, the safety brief says to leave everything behind - even your identification, wallet, and handbag.  I wonder how many people have traded their lives for their stuff they were rushing to grab instead of obeying the commands.  Jesus can save to the utmost all who come to Him, and we must submit to His terms.  Religion, money, or this world are not to be blamed for man's sin and unbelief:  we each bear this alone.