Greed and Envy

MARCH 12 2026  Greed and Envy

Matthew records Jesus as saying: "It is better for you to enter into life maimed or crippled, rather than having two hands or two feet to be cast into the everlasting fire...there are eunuchs who made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He who is able to receive it, let him receive it...it is easier for a camel to go through a needle's eye, than for a rich person to enter into the Kingdom of God."

Jesus said if your hand offends you cut it off. You don't need two hands to get into heaven. So if it offends you to the point that it's taking you to hell, what good will both hands do you in hell? So we need to cut off the things in our life that hinder us from serving God. And if God wants to cut things out of my life that make me look like a cripple, then I accept his will because I'd rather serve God with one hand than do my own will with both hands and go to hell because of my sin. I accept God's will today. He can cut what he wants out of my life, because it's better if a man not marry and it's better if a man has nothing, then if a man has all the strength of Ulysses and all the money of Midas and all the women of a Sultan and yet loses it all when he dies and then ends up in everlasting punishment. It's better to serve God and let go of all earthly possessions and passions and inherit eternal bliss with the Father forever. That's the parable of the hand, of marriage, and of riches. Weigh the world's goods all in the balance and it's lighter than a feather compared to the vast riches of eternal life. What does a man gain if he has everything in the world yet dies and spends eternity in hell? Why are we always so jealous of the rich? Covetousness and lust are going to destroy this generation and in the end everything will pass away. Better enjoy it while you can. And be prepared to meet your Maker. There's nothing wrong with riches and pleasures, but seek first the kingdom of God and then all these things will be added to you. Just don't lose your soul over material wealth and sensual pleasures. Trust God and let him cut the loose ends out of your heart and life. Live to glorify God, not to look cool to your peers.