An Old Article I Was Inspired to Share...

Fifty Pounds Or Less


So, as I have been preparing for this new journey, this has been a theme playing in the back of my mind. As on my tricycle I will only be able to carry about fifty pounds I must cut out anything that is unnecessary. It has caused me to reflect much on the baggage of life. What would you carry, if you could only take fifty pounds or less?
This question is very, very deep, what is most important in your life?


Mentally, I have wrote out my list and cut it down again and again. The most important thing I can think of when triking is water. A gallon of water weighs roughly 8 pounds. This leaves 42 pounds, see how quickly space dwindles? A pound or two of food, camping gear, clothing, socks, preaching gear, tracts, toiletries, ems etc., if I am not careful I will be overweight!


You probably are not preparing for a trip across country on a tricycle, still your life is likely a juggling act in one way or another. How can we manage as believers to carry the message of the Gospel while fulfilling the tasks of life, without being too heavy?


“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” -Matthew 6:33


This can be cliché in the church world, but that does not take away the value of actually seeking to do this. It is common for people to memorize this verse, to know mentally what it means, and yet we so often stop short of the prize. This is evidenced by the unnecessary burdens in our lives. If we seek first the kingdom, the Gospel becomes first and foremost in our lives. Everything which doesn't pertain to that takes a backseat. Where ever it seems that we have fallen short of this it should be our current task to settle our trust in Jesus.
People have so many objections when you speak of living for the kingdom of God; they say, you must live here on earth, you are too heavenly minded and on and on...
Jesus said, the kingdom of heaven is at hand! If we understand the meaning of this saying; we realize we are able to trust the same God who is providing our supernatural or eternal needs for our natural, that earthly needs. This is the result of following the verse out: “all these things shall be added to you”. If we have determined to trust Him we have one more thing, His righteousness. For this let us back up to Matthew 5, and study the Beattitudes.


“Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.¹”


If you are trusting God, you have access to the Spirit of God. You that are broken before God may not seem to have much else, but what a gift it is! You may be poor in spirit but you still have an inheritance laid up for you. This is one way to get rid of the extra baggage, recognize that no matter what else your soul is on a course to eternal joy in heaven. If whatever you have been carrying hasn't helped in this pursuit, then there is no need to carry it any further. What do you need it for?


“Blessed are they that mourn: for they shall be comforted.²”


There will be tears in this place, but once again look at the promise set before you³. You should not fear circumstances of this life, but rather it is wise that you fear God who has in His hands eternal life. The doubtful will not inherit the kingdom⁴, but as you allow these parts to be put to death, though you may mourn, you can expect to be comforted.


“Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.⁵”


Meekness is quiet strength, it is a gift from spending time in the presence of God. There is no greater way to get rid of the baggage of life than this; render your heart to God. This is humility and this is true strength. Eventually, through patience, diligence and perseverance you will find favor in whatever you have set your hands to do in this world. This is the law of sowing and reaping and it is an important thing to understand as a kingdom builder. These first three verses have been speaking to this end, that is seeking His kingdom, now let us look at how to search for His righteousness.


“Blessed are they which do hunger and thirst after righteousness: for they shall be filled.⁶”


Do you have hunger and thirst for God's righteousness? Jesus promised rivers of living water to flow from your belly. Remember the Word. Take an inventory of the things you are carrying, do they promote righteousness?
If you have done this, you shall be filled, again it comes back to the promise given. What more do you need?


“Blessed are the merciful: for they shall obtain mercy.⁷”


Righteousness and mercy go together throughout the scripture. Many mistakenly believe that forgiveness is unconditional, but Jesus says if you don't forgive others the Father cannot forgive you⁸. So part of His righteousness is having mercy, this will often not be easy. It is in this area where we usually carry the most baggage, so it is worth the effort to spend much time searching your hearts. Unforgiveness allows spirits of bitterness, rejection & rebellion to flourish, as it cuts you off from fellowship with God. It may be in order to go back to the first attitudes we mentioned, that is brokenness and humility. Are you willing to make amends? Show mercy.


“Blessed are the pure in heart: for they shall see God.⁹”


Finally, your load has been lightened. Now you can see the will of God, as it is layed out before you, now all things will be added unto you. As you are under authority you may learn to speak with authority and teach others as Jesus taught with power. The devils are subject to you but rejoice not for this, but rather, rejoice that your name is written down in the Lamb's book of life. Now you can be a peacemaker, and you are worthy and able to suffer for the sake of the kingdom. 1




















1. Matthew 5:3
2. Matthew 5:4
3. Hebrews 4:1
4. Revelation 21:8
5. Matthew 5:5
6. Matthew 5:6
7. Matthew 5:7
8. Matthew 6:14,15
9. Matthew 5:8
I wrote this back in April it got set aside, and I began reading it the other day and so I decided to post it.  I hope it blesses someone.  Thank you for your prayer and support!