Throw down the old toy

Two verses prior to His interaction with the rich young ruler, Jesus said, “Assuredly, I say to you, whoever does not receive the kingdom of God as a little child will by no means enter it.” So, how would a little child receive the kingdom of God?

Have you ever watched a little child playing with their favorite toy when someone brings a gift far more wonderful than what they have? The child looks at the toy in their hands, then tosses it aside to receive what’s been given, saying, “Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!”

This is quite the contrast to how the rich young ruler responded. He wanted to serve something other than God and was unwilling to repent and renounce his old ‘toy’ in favor of something far better. It was never about the money; it was about repenting of idolatry and making God number one on a list of one.

The rich young ruler was unwilling to do this. What about you? You can’t do anything to inherit eternal life. The only thing you can do is throw down your sin, run to Jesus, and receive the free gift of salvation He wants to give you.