Investment Options

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or three years, Steven had kept a close watch on the stock market.  The recent declines in the values of his holdings had been cause for some concern.  When his friend, Tom, had approached him about investing money in his new business, Steven was a little skeptical.  However, as he watched Tom's company grow and exceed his expectations, he willingly invested a sizeable sum of money in this venture.  He was certain that with the rapid growth of the company, he would realize a very large and rapid return on his investment.

This morning, however, as he looked at the recent trends in stocks, he wasn't so sure he had made such a wise decision.  True, Tom had made no promises that his company would produce a rapid and sustainable return to his investors, but all outward signs indicated that the company was strong and that investing heavily would be a wise move   However, the recent news that Tom's company would be taking a different direction in its philosophy had made many people wary.  Several of Steven's friends had sold their holdings and were encouraging him to do the same.  Tom had called to reassure Steven that the company was strong and that it would continue to be a sound investment.  However, Tom stressed the importance of investing for long-term growth and gain as opposed to instant gratification.  Steven struggled over which course of action to take.  Should he sell and get out, or should he keep his money invested for the long term?

This story could appear in tomorrow's headlines.  People the world over are constantly watching the world markets, deciding if their investments are sound or if they should liquidate their assets.  No one would blame Steven in the foregoing story if he decided to sell his stock in Tom's company.  After all, why invest money in the stock market if there will be little or no return on the investment?

Would you be surprised to know that this is a true story?  It took place over 2000 years ago and involved a very real investment opportunity.  Instead of investing in a company, it involved investing in a kingdom.  Instead of a return in terms of money, it involved a return in terms of eternity.  The decision, however, was the same.  To stay in, or get out.  It was that simple.

In John 6:67, Jesus asked a very important and probing question.  He had just given his followers the requirements for becoming his disciples.  He had told them that they must forsake everything and partake of his "flesh and blood" in order to secure salvation.  The response, like the investors in Tom's company, was one of shock and disbelief.  Jesus had worked miracles, his teaching was new and refreshing, his words were strong, and he had all the makings of the great political leader the Jews had waited for.  Nevertheless, he was talking about taking a new direction, one that wasn't going to be popular and one that would have no short-term gains.  People began leaving in droves and in this verse of scripture, Jesus asks the twelve men chosen to be his disciples the following question, “Are you going to leave, too?”

This question is still asked of us today.  When the road gets difficult, when the way becomes steep, when the trials come, and when prayers seem to go unanswered, we begin to think something is wrong. We wonder if we have misunderstood God or if we have made a mistake.  We wonder if the Christian life is worth the investment we've made.  We consider going back or taking another, easier path.  Then we hear Jesus' question, “Are you going to leave, too?” Like Steven, we are faced with a decision, a decision to continue and invest for eternal gain, or to liquidate for instant gratification.  Let me encourage you today to stay the course, to run the race, to go the distance.  Make your investment long-term knowing that "in due season we will reap a harvest if we do not give up." (Galatians 6:9 NIV) How does your investment portfolio look today, short-term enjoyment or long-term gain?