“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal.” (Matthew 6:19-20)
When reading about “treasures”, we tend to think of money, gold, or diamonds. These are valuable objects that have a strong appeal for most people. Some people make it their life goal to gather ever more of these riches. However, Jesus does not encourage us to lay up “treasures on earth”. After all, these are risky and fleeting.
Jesus points us to something better, which He calls “treasures in heaven”. The apostle Peter describes this as “an inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven for you” (1 Peter 1:4).
What is so valuable that it surpasses earthly treasures? It is eternal life in the presence of God. People who believe in Him, already “rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory”. And they know that the future will be better still, when God’s Kingdom comes to fulfillment.
The Bible does not say that earthly treasures are bad or worthless. But it does clearly say that material riches should not be our first priority. Over the next few days, we will read some good biblical advice on this topic.
How important is wealth for you?