The Rewards of Right Choices

By Greg Laurie, Op-ed contributor Monday, August 25, 2008

Then Peter said, "See, we have left all and followed You." —Luke 18:28

Peter had been listening in on the conversation between the rich, young ruler and Jesus. It revealed, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that possessions had possessed this young ruler's soul. He could not do what Jesus had asked, and as a result, he went away sorrowful.

Peter, after seeing what this ruler couldn't give up, pointed out, "See, we have left all and followed You" (Luke 18:28). In other words, "What's in it for us?"

Now, what did Peter actually leave? He left a few broken-down nets and a fishing boat, but he left something. Granted, it wasn't a lot. But he left it behind.

Jesus answered, "Assuredly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or parents or brothers or wife or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God, who shall not receive many times more in this present time, and in the age to come eternal life" (verses 29–30). Jesus was saying, "It will be made up to you, Peter."

This promise holds true today. Whatever you have given up for Jesus, it will be made up to you. Maybe you have lost a friendship here and there. Maybe you gave up a certain lifestyle. Maybe you have made changes in your life, and so you should have. But God will make it up to you.

I think, when you look back, it will only become clearer to you that you made the right choice in following Him. You will realize that not only has God made it up to you in this life, but also that He will make it up to you in eternity when you hear Him say, "Well done, good and faithful servant."

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