Inside, Out

SCRIPTURE
Mark 10:21-22: Jesus looked at him and loved him. "One thing you lack", He said. "Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.". At this, the man's face fell. He went away sad, because he had great wealth.

OBSERVATION
This rich young man was trying to live right, at least on the outside. His actions of obeying the laws and of falling on his knees before Jesus to ask about eternal life demonstrate this. But, Jesus saw what was going on inside. I love that Jesus looked at him and loved him. I love that Jesus did not scold him or criticize him. He saw inside and knew that this young man's one stumbling block was his wealth. And, of course, He was right. The young man could not give it up and went away sad.

APPLICATION
We may be doing all the right things outwardly but what does God see inside of us? Psalms 139:23 says, "Search me, O God, and know my heart . . .". To ask God to do this is to invite His scrutiny of our deepest desires and motives. We should want to be held accountable and kept true no matter how painful or shameful it may be.

PRAYER
"Father, let me be constantly focused inward, scrutinizing myself as You would. Show me areas that are hindering me from following and serving You as I should. Amen."