July 3, 2024
For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul?
Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
Mark 8:36-37 NKJV
The worth of an item is often determined by its perceived or inherent value. Consider an artwork auctioned at a gallery: the materials used in its production might constitute just a fraction of its asking price. However, its perceived value can elevate its price a thousandfold beyond the material cost. Similarly, the soul—the non-material essence of a person—holds immense value. Recognizing that man is a spirit, with a soul, and lives in a body, is essential for understanding the importance of nurturing the soul as well as caring for the body.
We frequently focus on physical care, as evidenced by the plethora of body care tips, beauty ambassadors, and products available. While taking care of the body is not wrong, it is equally important to feed and care for the soul.
So, what then is the worth of a soul? To grasp this term, we can refer to Matthew 18:12-14 (MSG):
Look at it this way. If someone has a hundred sheep and one of them wanders off, doesn’t he leave the ninety-nine and go after the one? And if he finds it, doesn’t he make far more over it than over the ninety-nine who stay put? Your Father in heaven feels the same way. He doesn’t want to lose even one of these simple believers.
This passage illustrates that the salvation of even a single soul is immensely valuable to God, equivalent to the ninety-nine already saved. Jesus’ purpose in coming to earth, dying, and resurrecting was to redeem the souls of men. Reflect on this profound truth before giving up on someone. Jesus paid a great price for every soul, including that of a child, parent, spouse, friend, or colleague who has not yet followed Christ. It is our responsibility to intercede for them until they are saved by Christ.
Before reverting to old ways from which you've been delivered, remember the sacrifices Jesus made for your salvation. He left His throne, became a man, endured shame, died on the cross, and resurrected for you.
Do not be deceived; the devil is also fiercely fighting for the souls of men, including believers. There is a substantial outreach from the kingdom of darkness into our world today through social media, music, human agents of darkness, and political arenas via anti-Christ legislations. It is essential to play your part in promoting the gospel through evangelism, praying for souls to be saved, and leading a godly generation.
Instead of spending hours chatting with a friend, why not use that time to lead them to Christ while living an exemplary Christian life?
Also, nourish own your soul with God’s Word, being fully aware that the devil is competing for it.
The cost of a soul is immeasurable. The love and sacrifice of Jesus underscore the infinite value placed on each soul. His pursuit of the lost as depicted in the parable of the lost sheep, demonstrates His relentless desire for the salvation of every individual. This parable isn't merely about numbers; it's about the depth of God's love and the lengths He will go to save even one lost soul.
Consider the influence you have in your community, workplace, and family. Are you using that influence to draw others closer to Christ? Are your conversations and lifestyle a testimony of God's transformative power? The call to evangelism is not just for missionaries or pastors but for every believer. By living out your faith authentically and sharing the gospel intentionally, you participate in the divine mission of saving souls. Feed your soul with His Word, speak to those around you about Christ, actively share the gospel, pray fervently for their salvation, and witness Heaven's rejoicing.
Song of Worship
Bless the Lord, O my soul,
And all that is within me, bless his holy name!
Song: Bless His Holy Name by Andraé Crouch
Prayer - Lord I thank you for Your Word this day. I receive the courage and the boldness to preach the gospel to the lost and those around me. Let my life be a testament of the Word.
Bible in 1 year: Job 25-27; Acts 12