The essential thing - All The Good Seed Daily Devotionals for 2026

For what is a man profited, if he shall gain the whole world, and lose his own soul? or what shall a man give in exchange for his soul?
Matthew 16:26

The essential thing
My neighbour, who suffers from asthma, has just wished me: "A Happy New", adding, "and good health. That is the main thing." He well knows what that means.
Another might have said, "The most important thing is a secure job." A third would consider having the right partner for life the best thing.
All these are indeed important, but there is definitely one thing that exceeds them all. It concerns not only the time we spend on this earth; it has consequences for eternity. Have you taken account of this matter? This morning I heard of the death of a very friendly colleague of mine. He had been conscientious in his profession and was ready to help anyone. I wonder if he had done what is most important. Had he ever considered that one day he would meet God?
Do please excuse us for asking you personally this question from time to time during the year: Are you ready to meet God? Have you put things right with Him? Have you spoken frankly to Him about your problems or dark secrets in your life? Today He is offering you forgiveness. He can do so, because Jesus Christ, His own Son, died for sins. For this reason, the most important thing in life is believing in Christ.
Whoever doesn't yet know the Son of God as his Saviour and Lord lacks the decisive essential thing both for the short time we spend on earth and for eternity.
Today's reading: Ezekiel ch.3 v.15 & ch. 4