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Poor and True Riches

  


In a world that prizes comfort, wealth, and status, the Bible presents us with a paradoxical truth: that suffering for Christ yields riches far greater than any earthly treasure. This profound reality is beautifully illustrated in Hebrews 11:25-26, which speaks of Moses' choice to align himself with God's people:

"Choosing rather to suffer affliction with the people of God, than to enjoy the pleasures of sin for a season; Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward." (KJV)

Moses, raised in the opulence of Pharaoh's palace, turned his back on a life of luxury and privilege. Instead, he chose to identify with the enslaved Israelites, embracing hardship and reproach for the sake of God's calling. In the eyes of the world, this decision may have seemed foolish. Yet Moses recognized a deeper truth - that the reproach of Christ far outweighs any worldly treasure.

This principle extends to all believers. When we suffer for our faith or face ridicule for our obedience to God's Word, we participate in riches that cannot be quantified by earthly standards. As the Apostle Paul writes:

"For I reckon that the sufferings of this present time are not worthy to be compared with the glory which shall be revealed in us." (Romans 8:18, KJV)

The reproach we bear for Christ produces eternal rewards that far surpass any temporary discomfort or loss. It refines our character, deepens our dependence on God, and aligns us more closely with His purposes. As Peter reminds us:

"But rejoice, inasmuch as ye are partakers of Christ's sufferings; that, when his glory shall be revealed, ye may be glad also with exceeding joy." (1 Peter 4:13, KJV)

When placed side by side with the things highly esteemed by men - wealth, power, prestige - the reproach of Christ reveals its true worth. It connects us to the very heart of God, allowing us to participate in His redemptive work in the world. No earthly treasure can compare to the privilege of sharing in Christ's sufferings and experiencing the power of His resurrection.

As we face trials and persecution for our faith, let us remember Moses' example. May we, too, esteem the reproach of Christ as our greatest riches, knowing that our light affliction works for us "a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory" (2 Corinthians 4:17, KJV).

In a world that constantly beckons us to pursue comfort and avoid difficulty, let us embrace the counterintuitive wisdom of Scripture. For in choosing the reproach of Christ over the treasures of Egypt, we gain riches that will endure for all eternity.

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