“For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” (Matthew 16:26, NKJV). This question isn’t really about the extreme case of literally gaining the whole world. It’s about the everyday trades we make without noticing.
Most of us aren’t tempted by literal world domination. We’re tempted by smaller versions of the same trade, a compromised integrity for a promotion, a neglected relationship for a bigger paycheck.
Jesus’ question forces a real accounting. Whatever is gained in that trade, is it actually worth what it costs the soul making it?
Is there a trade you’re currently making, small or large, that this question is worth applying to honestly?