Everything man does, is to build something for this life. Every aspect of his worldly education teaches and guides him to make a name and create the life of his dreams. 

Making a name requires purpose, and building an earthly life involves money. Making a name is what the Bible calls pride of life (1 John 2:15-17). Money draws a person into various lusts (1 Timothy 6:8-10). 

The problem is not with becoming well-known or drawing a high salary. It is NOT separating yourself from people and indulgences that separate you from labouring for Jesus.

It takes honesty and hard work to build a name and riches on earth. Yet, nothing is guaranteed. All that labour for something temporary becomes everything to us because of the time and effort involved.

Unless we are not ready to lose everything in this world, we cannot get to heaven.

For whosoever will save his life shall lose it; but whosoever shall lose his life for my sake and the gospel's, the same shall save it. (Mark 8:35)

Moses, Paul, Ruth, Job, Joseph, Stephen, and faith heroes had to either give up their worldly life. Or, it was taken away from them. Either way, they sought God and lived for the truth. 

WHAT DO YOU GAIN AFTER LOSING YOUR LIFE?

You grow in Jesus' character and prepare yourself for a reward for all your labour for the gospel. Only godly labour is eternal. Everything else we do ends in this life.

Not everyone may have a lot of material things to lose. Are you willing to lose your friends and family for the gospel? To be ridiculed and mocked because you believed in Christ? 

The closer we get to the coming of the Lord, these truths will manifest, pushing us to make choices for God or self. Be faithful in the Word, and you will never have to worry about today or the future because HE will see you through.

Maranatha, Praise God, and Amen.