Do Not Store Your Treasures on Earth: A Kingdom Perspective on Wealth
The admonition, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth,” found in Matthew 6:19, isn’t a condemnation of earthly possessions, but rather a reorientation of our priorities and a call to a kingdom-minded perspective on wealth. It challenges us to examine the motivations behind our pursuit of riches and encourages us to invest in eternal rewards rather than fleeting material comforts. This article explores the true meaning behind this powerful teaching and offers practical guidance for navigating the complexities of wealth and faith.
Understanding the Deeper Meaning
Jesus wasn’t advocating for poverty. He was addressing the danger of materialism and the alluring trap of placing our security and identity in possessions that are ultimately temporary and vulnerable to decay, theft, and disaster. The scripture continues, “where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal” (Matthew 6:19). This highlights the ephemeral nature of earthly treasures.
The core message centers on the location of our hearts. When our hearts are consumed with accumulating wealth, we become slaves to our possessions, losing sight of our ultimate purpose: knowing and serving God. Jesus urges us to invest in treasures that are imperishable – things that have eternal value such as faith, love, character, and acts of service. This involves using our resources – time, talents, and finances – to advance God’s kingdom and bless others.
Why Earthly Treasures Fail
Earthly treasures, no matter how vast, ultimately fail to satisfy the deepest longings of the human heart. They provide temporary comfort and security, but they are susceptible to loss, theft, and the inevitable decay that comes with time. Furthermore, the pursuit of earthly treasures can distract us from our relationship with God and hinder our ability to live a life of purpose and meaning.
Moreover, an over-attachment to earthly possessions can breed anxiety, greed, and envy, ultimately poisoning our relationships and our own well-being. The constant striving for “more” can create a relentless cycle of dissatisfaction, leaving us perpetually yearning for something just beyond our reach. By contrast, investing in eternal treasures brings lasting joy, peace, and fulfillment.
Investing in Eternal Treasures
So, how do we “store up treasures in heaven?” It’s not about monastic isolation or rejecting all material possessions. Instead, it’s about aligning our actions with our values. Here are some ways to invest in eternal treasures:
- Giving generously: Supporting charities, missions, and individuals in need is a powerful way to use our resources to advance God’s kingdom.
- Serving others: Acts of kindness, compassion, and service have a lasting impact on the lives of others and accumulate spiritual rewards.
- Developing spiritual character: Cultivating virtues like love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control enriches our lives and draws us closer to God.
- Sharing the Gospel: Proclaiming the good news of Jesus Christ to others is perhaps the most impactful way to invest in eternal treasures, as it has the potential to transform lives for eternity.
Practical Application in Today’s World
Living out this principle in today’s world requires intentionality and discernment. It means carefully evaluating our priorities and making conscious choices about how we allocate our resources. It means resisting the allure of consumerism and seeking contentment in the things that truly matter. It also requires cultivating a spirit of generosity and actively seeking opportunities to serve others. This doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy what you have, but that your enjoyment should not lead to hoarding or a false sense of security.
FAQs: Exploring the Nuances of Wealth and Faith
Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify this important teaching:
What does the Bible say about wealth in general?
The Bible doesn’t condemn wealth itself, but it does warn against the dangers of greed and materialism. Wealth can be a blessing if used wisely and generously, but it can also be a curse if it becomes an idol or a source of pride and self-reliance. Many righteous individuals in the Bible, like Abraham and Job, were wealthy. The key is their heart posture towards that wealth.
Is it wrong to save for the future?
No. Prudent planning and saving are considered wise stewardship. The Bible encourages us to be responsible with our resources and to provide for our families. However, saving should not become an obsession or a source of anxiety. Our trust should ultimately be in God, not in our savings accounts.
How much should I give to charity?
The Bible doesn’t prescribe a specific percentage for giving. While the Old Testament often refers to a tithe (10%), the New Testament emphasizes generosity that flows from the heart. The amount we give should be determined by our resources, our conscience, and our desire to support worthy causes.
Can I be rich and still be a Christian?
Yes. Many Christians throughout history have been wealthy. The key is to maintain a humble and generous spirit and to use wealth for God’s glory and the benefit of others. Jesus warns that it’s more difficult for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven, not because wealth itself is evil, but because it can easily become a stumbling block.
What if I lose all my earthly possessions?
Losing earthly possessions can be a painful experience, but it can also be an opportunity to re-evaluate our priorities and to deepen our trust in God. True security lies not in our possessions, but in our relationship with Him. The Bible encourages us to find comfort and strength in God during times of adversity.
What does it mean to have a “kingdom mindset”?
A kingdom mindset means viewing everything through the lens of God’s purposes and priorities. It means seeking to advance His kingdom in all that we do, whether it’s at work, at home, or in our communities. It also means valuing eternal rewards over temporary earthly pleasures.
How do I avoid the trap of materialism?
Avoiding materialism requires conscious effort and self-discipline. It involves cultivating contentment, practicing gratitude, and resisting the urge to compare ourselves to others. It also means surrounding ourselves with people who share our values and who will encourage us to live a life of purpose and meaning.
Does this teaching apply to everyone, regardless of income?
Yes. This teaching applies to everyone, regardless of income. It’s about heart posture – the love of money affects people across the income spectrum. Even those with limited resources can be tempted to hoard what they have or to covet what others possess. The principle of investing in eternal treasures is relevant to everyone, regardless of their financial situation.
How can I teach my children about the importance of eternal treasures?
Teaching children about eternal treasures involves modeling generosity and compassion. It means helping them understand the value of serving others and encouraging them to use their talents and resources to make a positive impact on the world. It also means teaching them about the importance of faith, character, and integrity.
What is the difference between frugality and greed?
Frugality is about managing resources wisely and avoiding unnecessary spending. Greed, on the other hand, is an excessive desire for wealth and possessions, often at the expense of others. Frugality is about stewardship; greed is about self-centeredness.
How do I balance enjoying earthly pleasures with storing up treasures in heaven?
It’s not about denying ourselves all earthly pleasures, but about maintaining a balanced perspective. We can enjoy the good things that God provides, but we should not allow them to consume our lives or distract us from our ultimate purpose. The key is to enjoy earthly pleasures with gratitude and humility, always remembering that they are temporary gifts from a loving God.
How does this teaching relate to social justice?
The teaching to not store up treasures on earth has profound implications for social justice. It calls us to examine the systems and structures that perpetuate inequality and to work towards creating a more just and equitable world. It also encourages us to use our resources to advocate for the marginalized and to support those in need.
The Eternal Perspective
Ultimately, the call to not store up treasures on earth is an invitation to live a life of purpose and meaning, a life focused on eternal values rather than fleeting material comforts. It’s a call to invest in what truly matters – our relationship with God, our love for others, and our contribution to His kingdom. By embracing this perspective, we can experience a joy and fulfillment that transcends the limitations of earthly wealth and find true and lasting treasure in the life to come.