If I Knew Then…

Did you ever say, “If I knew then what I know now…”? There was a rich man who certainly expressed this concept. His story is found in Luke 16:19-31. He is the one that is associated with the beggar Lazarus. There are several things that he realized too late for him to change. Let us notice them. He Learned…

1. His material possessions in life did not assure him of riches in eternity (19, 23).
2. God’s grace is limited. While on earth, he could avail himself of God’s saving grace. In torment, he was not even granted one drop of water to cool his tongue (24).
3. God’s power must be recognized. While on earth, man may take a position against God. However, God has the last say (23a).
4. He should have had a concern for the lost of the world (27-28).
5. Once life is finished on earth, there is no altering of one’s eternal destiny (26).
6. A life of faithfulness returns an eternity of joy and comfort (22a, 25b).
7. Eternal fire and torment are a reality (24).

Some say, “It is never too late to learn.” It was for the rich man, and it may become so with you.