Acts 5:1-11 NKJV

[1] But a certain man named Ananias, with Sapphira his wife, sold a possession. [2] And he kept back part of the proceeds, his wife also being aware of it, and brought a certain part and laid it at the apostles’ feet. [3] But Peter said, “Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and keep back part of the price of the land for yourself? [4] While it remained, was it not your own? And after it was sold, was it not in your own control? Why have you conceived this thing in your heart? You have not lied to men but to God.” [5] Then Ananias, hearing these words, fell down and breathed his last. So great fear came upon all those who heard these things. [6] And the young men arose and wrapped him up, carried him out, and buried him. [7] Now, it was about three hours later when his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. [8] And Peter answered her, “Tell me whether you sold the land for so much?” She said, “Yes, for so much.” [9] Then Peter said to her, “How is it that you have agreed together to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look, the feet of those who have buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out.” [10] Then immediately she fell down at his feet and breathed her last. And the young men came in and found her dead, and carrying her out, buried her by her husband. [11] So great fear came upon all the church and upon all who heard these things.

If anyone were to ask me about my spiritual walk, I would be compelled to say that I am sold out for God completely. I serve regularly at church. I am quick to share my testimony with people at any time and anywhere. I pray often. I even read my Bible every day. I am sold out, right?

All of those things matter. I am certain of that, but does that mean I am always all in all of the time? If I am being completely transparent, my answer would be "no." I give a lot of myself, but not all of me. I hold some of myself back like a reserve. There is always enough left in my tank for what I want, need, and like. I hoard my time for myself when I can.

I know breaks for myself are important. Self care is part of caring for the temple (my body). The last thing I want is to be guilty of using self-preservation as an excuse to keep from fully serving God. I want to be a sellout. I want to be a husband, father, and friend who points everyone to the Lord by the example I set with myself and the way I live my life.