December 3: Insight Post by Rusty Coram

  -   December 3, 2025

True Treasure is Found in Christ: Jesus emphasizes that eternal life and true riches are found not in earthly wealth but in following Him. The Rich Young Ruler was focused on his possessions instead of the eternal treasure offered by Jesus.

Wednesday Verse

Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life. 1 Timothy 6:18-19 (NLT)

Wednesday Questions

Am I more focused on accumulating earthly wealth or investing in eternal treasure? How can I shift my priorities to focus on what truly matters?

Wednesday Insight Post
by Rusty Coram

A counselor friend of mine has often asked clients, “How do you think Jesus sees you?” He does this to help people move beyond feelings of shame or guilt and actually picture Jesus as if He were sitting next to them.  The only way this can work effectively is if the person has an accurate understanding of Jesus’ heart towards people. Our story this week gives us that kind of picture. Jesus is approached by an influential and wealthy leader who seems genuinely intent on being certain that he is in right standing with God. In Mark’s account, we read, “Looking at the man, Jesus felt genuine love for him.” Mark 10:21 (NLT) Jesus knows that this young man is more devoted to his possessions and position than anything else – including God, but He still genuinely cares for him. This love compels Jesus to tell the man something he doesn’t want to hear, and it will result in him turning his back on Jesus. “There is still one thing you haven’t done,” he told him. “Go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” Jesus knows that if you truly love someone, you will care enough to speak the truth, even if it means being rejected. More than likely, this guy was surrounded by people who praised and pampered him to maintain closeness. Jesus loved him too much to do that. Instead, Jesus challenged the man with an assignment that He knew would reveal the man’s actual obstacle to a genuine relationship with God.

I think it is important to note two things here:

1. God isn’t willing to be second place in our priorities. In the young man’s case, his real first love was himself. His possessions and position all served his wants and desires. Jesus gave him the opportunity to see this clearly.
2. When we choose to make God our number one priority, He will meet all of our needs fully. I could imagine the man saying to Jesus, “Ok, I’m selling it all!” and then Jesus saying to him, “That’s what I wanted to hear. Keep it for now and use it as I direct you.” God isn’t interested in what we have but what has us.

Rusty Coram
Senior Pastor

New Hope Church
Lorton, Virginia
www.newhope.org