Mark 8:34 And when he had called the people unto him with his disciples also, he said unto them, Whosoever will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross, and follow me. 35 For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it. 36 For what shall it profit a man, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? 37 Or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
This passage of scripture as spoken by Christ, was written for the benefit of all future generations so that we may harbor the right perspective on life in this present world. The words came on the heels of a discourse which Jesus had with the people, in which the most blessed revelation ever given to mortal man was elaborated upon, and details were then given so that the disciples and the multitudes could avoid the disappointment of fond hopes and dreams, that would take place at the cross.
Christ had just plainly stated that he would be killed by the chief priests and elders, but that He would rise again on the third day, a sacred statement that should have brought great joy to the disciples, as it pertained to the victory over sin and satan that was to be accomplished at Calvary, when the world's Redeemer would lay down His life to save us from our sins.
But the thought of a humiliating death by Christ and the repercussions it would have were not in harmony with the proud hopes of the disciples, for they expected a kingdom of glory and power in which they would figure prominently, in terms of temporal greatness, rank, and importance. These expectations needed to be addressed by Christ, for they were foreign to the very principles of His kingdom, such as self-denial, humility and love for one another. Hence the reason why The Lord stated that whosoever will come after Him must practice self denial, by having God first in our affections, and leading a life of faithful service for the uplifting of humanity, because life is not worth the living if we should gain the whole material world and then lose our own souls.
God has placed us here on probation, and He has set before us the true meaning of life, so that we can make wise choices that will impact us for eternity. And while it is good for us to work for our daily bread, to enjoy the material blessings of life, and to retire in peace and contentment, yet these accomplishments and activities do not constitute the true purpose for our existence, for without God being the focus in our everyday experiences, and without useful service for Christ, life just becomes an empty void that will inevitably lead us into never land. This life is just a preparation for the immortal life that God will give to those who truly love Him, and that's one of the reasons why He has commanded us to lay aside the temporal pursuits of life one day out of every week, so that we can focus on Him, who is the source of joy and true happiness.
As we enter into the Sabbath hours, we are reminded not only of God's created works, but also of His redemptive work in our hearts, changing us from the inside out so that we can enjoy a deeper fellowship with Him and with one another. Furthermore, the Sabbath is given as a sign of our sanctification, which directly addresses the true meaning of life. Let's read:
Exodus 31:13 Speak thou also unto the children of Israel, saying, Verily my sabbaths ye shall keep: for it is a sign between me and you throughout your generations; that ye may know that I am the Lord that doth sanctify you.
In our own personal walk with Christ, let us then be careful not to let the mundane things of this world, and the deceitfulness of riches to cause us to lose sight of eternal realities, for the temporal things of earth will pass away, but He that does the will of God abides forever. We therefore end with a passage of scripture which reminds us of the true purpose for our existence, and it is the will of God that His sacrifice for us, to grant unto us eternal life, would not have been in vain. Let's read:
1st Timothy 6:6 But godliness with contentment is great gain. 7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. 8 And having food and raiment let us be therewith content. 10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows. 11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness. 12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.
May God add His blessing to the study and practice of His word. "Good night" and God bless!