Devotional Thought

Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!” The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said again, “Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.”

-Mark 10:23-25 (NIV)

When Jesus encountered the rich young ruler, He issued a challenge that pierced the man’s heart: “Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor… then come, follow me.” The man’s sorrowful departure reveals the power of wealth to grip our hearts and obscure our vision of God’s kingdom.

In a world that constantly tells us to consume more, save more, and protect what’s ours, Jesus’ words are shocking. He does not condemn wealth itself but exposes its deceptive pull. Wealth can subtly become our idol—shaping our identity, directing our desires, and absorbing our trust.

Yet Jesus reminds us that what is impossible with man is possible with God. Transformation begins with surrender. He is not calling us to empty poverty, but to freedom—a radical reorientation of our trust, treasure, and purpose.

1. Who are “the rich” in Jesus’ teaching? Consider your own lifestyle in light of global realities. Do you recognize yourself in the rich young ruler? Why or why not?

2. How does wealth (or the pursuit of more) subtly affect your daily decisions, worries, or priorities? Share personal examples of how money, comfort, or security may influence your choices.

3. In what ways can wealth and abundance become an idol in our culture—or in your life personally? How do you respond to the idea that idols are “anything we give ultimate worth to instead of God”?

4. Jesus told the man to sell everything and follow Him. What might Jesus be asking you to release in order to follow Him more fully? Is it money, control, reputation, comfort, or something else?

5. Read Matthew 13:22 and 1 Timothy 6:6–10. What do these passages reveal about the spiritual dangers of wealth and the value of contentment?

6. Jesus says it is hard for the rich to enter the kingdom. Why is that? How can wealth (even moderate wealth) distract or distance us from wholehearted discipleship?

7. Discuss the practice of generosity. Do you find it easy or difficult to give sacrificially? How have you seen God work through your giving—or someone else's?

Take 30 minutes this week to prayerfully reflect:

• Where does my money go? (Review recent bank statements or a budgeting app.)
• What does my spending say about my values and trust in God?
• Where can I increase generosity—not just in giving, but in hospitality, time, and service?