"If"

This morning while reading a bible verse the word "if" jumped out at me. I know this word can be used in many different ways, but I want to  start by focusing on its use as an excuse. "If only the circumstances were different, then I would be happy. "

"If only I were a better speaker, then I could be a better soul-winner." I think you get the idea.

I have been thinking about my own life. It is easy to make excuses for a deficit in our knowledge, behavior, spirituality etc. Instead of casting myself down at my Master's feet, I am sometimes tempted to try to rationalize my behavior. Oh that I may acknowledge my weakness and sinfulness and run to the One who IS my Power and my Deliverer.

In the verse I read this morning the word "if" is used as a condition for attaining, or receiving something. 

"If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven." Matthew 19:21

This is a conditional promise. God never asks us to give up something good just because He wants to take it away from us. He asks us to give up possessions in order that He can give us something even better. 

The rich young ruler was sad when Jesus told him to sell all that he owned, because he was very wealthy.Sadly he did not realize that giving up material possessions for Jesus is nothing in the light of our heavenly inheritance.

 Though "if" is but a little word, it taught me a very valuable lesson today.