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Matthew 19:20 (BSB)
“All these I have kept,” said the young man. “What do I still lack?”
THE HOLY BIBLE
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Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions““All these I have kept,” said the young man. “What do I still lack?”” — Matthew 19:20
Here’s this young man, full of hope and a bit of urgency, asking a critical question: he thinks he’s done everything right, but something in him is still unsettled. It’s like standing in front of a mirror, admiring your reflection, but sensing there’s something missing. This moment is raw and honest; he’s reaching out, seeking clarity on his spiritual journey. It’s a powerful reminder that even when we think we have it all together, there might be deeper questions waiting to be explored.
This book was written by Matthew, a former tax collector who became one of Jesus’ followers. Matthew had a front-row seat to the teachings and actions of Jesus, and he wanted to share this amazing journey with others. By including this young man’s question, Matthew highlights a critical aspect of faith: it’s not just about following rules but about seeking a genuine relationship and understanding with God. He knows this is a question many wrestle with, and he wants to encourage everyone to dig deeper.
Matthew wrote this during a time when society was deeply rooted in tradition and rules. The world was buzzing with various expectations and pressures. Picture a bustling marketplace where everyone is trying to uphold their reputation and status based on how well they follow the rules. In this setting, the young man’s question stands out—it challenges the status quo and pushes for something more. This context helps us see how revolutionary it was to prioritize the heart over mere actions.
This verse strikes a chord today because it taps into a universal feeling: the search for meaning and fulfillment. You might excel in life, check all the boxes, but still feel like something’s missing. This young man's question is an invitation for you to explore what truly brings you satisfaction and connection. It encourages you to look beyond the surface and seek a deeper understanding of what really matters in life. It’s a nudge to evaluate your journey and consider where you might be holding back.
Take a moment this week to reflect on your own life. Ask yourself: what are the things you’re doing that might look good on the outside, but don’t fill you up on the inside? Make a list of what you feel is missing. Then, try to step into something that speaks to your heart—maybe that’s volunteering, having a deep conversation with a friend, or even exploring a new interest. It’s about taking steps toward a more genuine life, just like the young man was seeking.
Now, let’s step back and see the bigger picture. This young man’s question comes right after he’s been told about the importance of following certain rules and commands. He’s been checking off boxes, living a good life, yet he’s still feeling a void. This moment is the turning point in the chapter where the focus shifts from rules to something much deeper: the heart of the matter. His question sets the stage for what comes next—a profound teaching about what truly matters in life, moving beyond just surface-level actions.
What do you think is missing in your own life that you need to explore or address, just like the young man in this verse?
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