DAD'S RAMBLINGS -- PROFIT AND LOSS STATEMENTS

DAD'S RAMBLINGS – PROFIT AND LOSS STATEMENTS

" 'For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? Or what will a man give in exchange for his soul?' " (Matthew 16:26)

We are attentive to profit and loss statements. When we make an investment, we want to see a gain in its value. To see a loss in the financial statement gives us pause to consider whether that is a good investment or not.

On the eternal balance sheet, there will be profit and loss. Our investment here on earth will determine whether there is gain or loss.

The Apostle Paul was very aware of this profit and loss concept. He said, "What things were gain to me, these I have counted loss for Christ" (Philippians 4:7). He went on to say that all the advantages of his past life – his religious heritage and his own righteousness – he counted as rubbish in order to gain Christ (vs. 8). To know Christ was more valuable to him than anything this world had to offer. Even in this life, he considered godliness with contentment to be great gain (I Timothy 6:6).

Esau is an example in the Old Testament of a person who did not see the value of spiritual things. He was willing to trade his inheritance of "blessing" for a pot of stew (Genesis 25:29-34).

I want to be careful not to trade my spiritual treasure for the treasures this world that is going to pass away. What profit is there to me if I gain the whole world, and lose what is the most important thing on earth – my soul? As Jesus said, "Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth...but lay up for ourselves treasures in heaven..." (Matthew 6:20-21). "Do not cast away your confidence, which has great reward" (Hebrews 10:35). Investing in eternal things is a wise investment and will bring great gain, both in this life and the next.

Love, Dad