Cosmetic companies are an encouraging bunch with each advert repeating the same life-affirming message: Apparently, we’re worth it. Worth spoiling. Worth pampering. Worth indulging. Worth – and here’s the crux of the matter – spending our money on.
And, even if we don’t purchase their products, as Christians, we often buy into their message. In the West, we live in societies where ease, pleasure, popularity and security are sought above all else. And we can often get very grumpy and resentful when God asks us to give up even the smallest of these things.
But turn to the pages of Scripture and we see a somewhat different orientation. Time and time again we hear a unique message. We are not to seek pleasure or ease but rather push through the tough times … Why? Because Jesus is worth it. A relationship with him, membership of his Kingdom and the hope of eternity in his presence make all kinds of sacrifices now completely and utterly worthwhile.
We worship a saviour who has told us to pick up our cross and follow him (Mark 8:34) and to be content in sacrifice in the manner of 2 Corinthians 12:10 (“For the sake of Christ then, I am content with weakness, insults, hardships, persecutions, and calamities”) because knowing him makes everything else pale into significance (Philippians 3:8). It’s an awesome truth! A life-changing message. A message for all of us who are able to detect a hint of resentment in our heart.
I don’t know what you are sacrificing – or thinking about sacrificing – for the sake of Christ …
But whatever it is, if it is for Jesus – it is worthwhile. It is more than worthwhile, it’s a huge, massive privilege – something to be welcomed with open arms. Because He, above all else, is worth it …
