Dear Young Christian:
The gospel is free, and thank God it is so. “Without money and without price” (Isaiah 55:1). However, we must buy the truth. “Buy the truth, and sell it not” (Proverbs 23:23). If we are going to really lay hold of the truth and walk in obedience to it, there is going to be a cost, a price to pay. Some pay a greater price than others, but there is always a price. It may be simply reproach from family or friends, or it may involve imprisonment, torture, or even the ultimate price, death.
We never value something as much as when we buy it for ourselves. That’s why the Lord allows many tests of faith in our Christian life, so that we have to buy the truth for ourselves, and value it more and more. Let’s not sell out when the tests come. The price of selling out is not worth the loss that results. Loss of testimony, peace of mind, rest of soul, joy of heart, and many other hidden costs, that we don’t realize until it is too late. “Hold fast” (Revelation 2:25).
Your Christian Friend,
Jim Hyland
We would love to hear from you. Send your comments or questions to jhyland@primus.ca
