In our relentless pursuit of worldly success, we must pause and ask ourselves, “What shall it profit a man if he gain the whole world and lose his own soul?” These words from Matthew 16:26 serve as a poignant reminder of the delicate balance between our earthly ambitions and the well-being of our souls. The children of Israel, as told in Psalms 106:15, received their desires but at the cost of a “leanness of soul,” leaving their hearts empty and unfulfilled. You must tread carefully on your life’s journey, ensuring that you do not compromise the state of your soul.
Evaluating the condition of our souls requires introspection. How do we feel about righteousness, mercy, and justice? Do we hold dear the timeless ideals of truth, goodness, and beauty? Matthew 16:26 and Psalms 106:15 teach us that those who solely pursue material gain, neglecting their spiritual essence, end up with lean souls. Houses, cars, alcohol and carnal pleasures cannot compensate for a lean soul. They will find themselves dwelling in a realm of emptiness and darkness. However, 3 John 1:2 reminds us that just as we prosper physically, our souls too must flourish.
The key to enriching our souls lies in generosity and love. Proverbs 11:25 illuminates this truth: “the liberal soul shall be made fat: and he that watereth shall be watered also himself.” By cultivating a generous spirit, we nourish our souls. This is because the quality and quantity of our giving are expressions of love. In a world often driven by self-interest and personal gain, let us strive to be known for our generosity, compassion, and willingness to uplift others. As we water the lives of those around us, we, too, find ourselves refreshed, fulfilled, and enriched in ways that transcend material possessions.
