Matthew 19 has a way of stepping on our toes. Jesus talks about marriage and commitment, welcomes children, challenges the rich young ruler, and reminds His disciples that following Him will sometimes require letting go of what we value most.
One of the hardest parts of this chapter is the rich young ruler. He comes to Jesus with a good question: “What good deed must I do to have eternal life?”
Jesus eventually tells him to sell what he has, give to the poor, and follow Him.
The man walks away sad.
Not because Jesus was unclear but because the cost was greater than he was willing to pay.
That makes me wonder:
What am I holding onto that makes following Jesus harder than it needs to be?
It may not be money. It could be comfort. Control. Pride. Reputation. An old way of thinking. Even our plans for how we think life should turn out.
Jesus isn’t looking for people who simply agree with Him. He’s looking for people willing to follow Him.
And here’s the good news: Jesus doesn’t leave us to figure that out on our own.
What is impossible with man is possible with God. (Matthew 19:26)
That’s a pretty good place to start this Sunday.
Lord, show me what I’m holding onto and give me the courage to open my hands.
Until my next post…
Be salty, stay lit.
Rainer Bantau —The Devotional Guy™
© 2026 Rainer Bantau | The Devotional Guy™ | All Rights Reserved
The Devotional Guy™ 
I live that citation from Mathew 19🙏
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