The Deal of the Century

"One Year Bible"New Testament Passage (for Sat., Oct. 6, 2012)
Colossians 2:8-23

Beware lest anyone cheat you through philosophy and empty deceit, according to the tradition of men, according to the basic principles of the world, and not according to Christ.  For in Him dwells all the fullness of the Godhead bodily. Colossians 2:8-9 (NKJV)

Our world is full of interesting and enticing treasures. Have you looked at a pictured menu in a restaurant and marvelled at all the great things from which to choose?  They all look so good. We are surrounded by promises of better finances, a better body, a better sex life, a better everything! There seems to be an ever-increasing possibility of living the "good life".

The self-help movement that fills virtually ever corner of our culture has made you a promise: "If you'll just do THIS your life will be perfect."  No doubt, there are certain things we ought to do in order to have a better life. But, there is a deeper message. The philosophy that undergirds all these possibilities is that YOU are the master of your destiny.

No longer do we need to know Christ. Instead, we need to know the chemistry of our emotions. No longer do we need to know the grace of God. Instead, we need to know our unique talents. No longer do we need to gaze upon the majesty of our great God. Instead, we need to plumb the depths of our hidden potential.

The worst part about all of this is that the world will CHEAT you. It asks for your life, but then gives you fool's gold. All you get back is a re-furbished, re-modelled version of yourself. When you give yourself to Jesus, He gives HIMSELF back to you. What a deal!

Such is a life of FULLNESS. Give your life away, and you will be given the greatest life. Hold on to your own self-fulfilment and will end up gyped and broken. That seems to be a pretty easy choice to make. Give yourself to the One on whom all fullness dwells.