The truth is we make trades everyday. We trade in our time for a paycheck, comfort, status, or fame.
Sometimes we trade up but other times we trade down. Trading in a larger paycheck for spending time
with family would be an example of trading up. Trading in your integrity for the sake of being popular is
an example of trading down. Not all trades are equal or good for that matter. Some trades cause us to
lose out on worthwhile and meaningful relationships while other trades appear as if we’re losing out now
when we’re truly gaining something eternally valuable.
Jesus says that if we lose our lives for Him, we’ll actually find life. To be clear, disciples of Christ will be
required to make sacrifices or trades. We can either wrestle against them or embrace them.
Perhaps you’ve sacrificed a friendship or material comfort to follow Christ. Maybe you’ve traded popularity for integrity. You may have asked yourself, “Is it truly worth it?” The answer is yes. Jesus assures
us that when we trade in our time or comfort or anything else of importance for the things of God, the
rewards will certainly far outweigh the present sacrifice.
Don’t be tempted into trading ultimate joy for immediate happiness. Instead make sure you’re trading up.
It’s guaranteed that you won’t regret it!
By Marco Salazar
Pastoral Resident
Marco Salazar is currently a pastoral resident with big hopes and dreams for the future. He
is married to his amazing wife, Kari and they have one ridiculously cute daughter, Ariana.
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