3. Renouncing all (counting all as loss) means that we will seek to deal with the things of this world in ways that show that they are not our treasure, but rather that Christ is our treasure.
That is, we will hold things loosely, share things generously, and ascribe value to things in relation to Christ. We will seek to live the paradox of 1 Corinthians 7:30–31, “Let [Christians] buy as though they had no goods, and those who deal with the world as though they had no dealings with it.”
"Hold things loosely" is the point that stood out for me. I'm a big golfer, would do it everyday if I could. Any person who plays, no matter how good or bad they are, knows that the way you grip the club is very important. Without thinking of any other swing flaws, the way you grip the club
has the ability to make the ball go in any direction. Grip is key, and so is grip pressure. Too tight and you might hit it thin, slice it, hook it, the possibilities are endless. Too loose and your beloved 7-iron might end up in a tree or the lake. Firm enough to keep hold of it, but loose enough to let it do the work.
You will find more success on the golf course if you hold the club just a little looser. You will find your relationship with Christ better if you hold onto the world just a little looser. Firm enough to make it work, but loose enough to let Christ work in our life.
The full post can be found by following the link below:
http://www.desiringgod.org/blog/posts/how-to-count-it-all-as-loss
Great analogy Chris. As someone who made a living of holding things tightly, I know the adverse effects that can come when you get caught. The same is true when we hold on to the world; we are sure to be penalized for it.
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