Give It Up -- Matthew 19:10-12

“For there are eunuchs who have been so from birth, and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by others, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. Let anyone accept this who can.” (v.12)

Quite frankly, I find it unacceptable! Especially when I think, “what have I sacrificed for the kingdom of heaven?”

Thinking about these verses, it is not just about sex and it is not just about divorce and celibacy after remarriage (as odd as that thought might be). It is also about a committed relationship to another human being, a “significant other”. Now I suppose, if you have never known that kind of relationship in the first place you might not miss it, but, having known it, then to walk away from it for the duration of your lifetime, is quite another thing.

There are some concepts in Scripture I cannot relate to and this is one of them. There are some elements I can relate to primarily through application, and this is one of them. What have I given up for the kingdom of God? Or should I say what of significance have I given up for the kingdom of God? Now here is the key….. WILLINGLY!!! When I reflect on years gone by, I believe there have been times where I’ve said “Father, whatever it takes, I’m yours” and then when He takes, I say, “Hey, wait a minute, I didn’t know you were going to do that! If I would have known that….”

There are some things I have “given up” that have caused me great bitterness, grief and anger toward my Father God, that is not what I am talking about. He and I have, and in some instances are working through that. What I am talking about is what I willingly yield to Him for the kingdom’s sake.

There is nothing easy about kingdom work, serious kingdom work. I don’t know about you, but it scares me at times and in all candor --- this kingdom thing can really be vexing.

Father Spirit, it’s pretty paltry, when I look at the list of “give ups” for the kingdoms sake. Then again, I don’t suppose you are keeping any kind of scorecard. I am sure, when the time comes to let go, you’ll let me know. You always do.