Treasures

Where are our treasures? The Bible is clear on where they should be. Matt. 6:19 -21 tells us,“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”

But I’m not sure many really listen to this wise admonition. We spend so much of our time and effort trying to gain as many things, wealth, and pleasure as we can. We have so much in this country that the temptation is always there to get more and then we will be happier. I read that the average American spends 80% of his or her waking hours making money, spending money, or worrying about money.

The trouble with spending all our time obtaining wealth or position is that it does not fulfill us and all of it can be taken away so quickly and then we have nothing to rely on. Truly the earthly treasures can be stolen, or destroyed by the elements. We read about it every day. We are here for such a short time and need to have heavenly treasures to inspire us, not those that can be gone in an instant.

How do we lay up treasures in heaven? First of all, we put God first by worshipping him and studying his word so that we will know what he has stored up for us and what he has done for us. Then we use the material things he has given us to care for our families and others. We encourage one another and reach out to those who are lost so that they will have the treasured goals that we have.

I came across three good sayings that I‘m going to try to keep in mind everyday: “Whatever owns you is what you will serve.” “Money is a wonderful servant, but a lousy master.” “Hold tightly to the things of God and loosely to the things of the world.” I pray God will bless us in our daily walk.
–Jim Keevert