Beautiful Word Devotional #260

“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field.”

Matthew 13:44

In this verse, there’s a three-letter word that’s easy to miss. So focused on the treasure or the man’s amazing sacrifice, we overlook joy. Let’s consider its importance.

First, the kingdom of heaven truly is the greatest treasure imaginable. It is so valuable that we find sheer joy in giving up everything we have for its sake. In the same way, Jesus paid an immeasurably high price—like one that would be paid for a treasure—in order to usher us into his kingdom. Again, that kingdom is so valuable that we find great joy as we surrender everything to lay hold of it.

Such surrendering is not painful. In light of the kingdom treasures—of the eternal life, forgiveness of sin, and grace we receive—we can find it sheer joy to lay down our lives. And of course our greatest kingdom treasure is Jesus himself.

Lord, thank you that your kingdom brings joy, even in the sacrifices and surrender by which we obtain that treasure. Amen.