Valuing Heavenly Treasures Over Earthly Ones

What’s your favorite possession? Do you have a few things that mean the world to you –  things you just don’t think you could live without?

The gospels record the story of a rich young ruler who ran and knelt before Jesus asking, “Good Teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus, knowing his heart, responded, “…go, sell all that you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow me.”  Disheartened, the young man went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions.

How about you?  Our time here on this earth is fleeting. And at the end of our days, we won’t carry our treasures with us. In fact, the things that mean the most to us, will someday belong to someone else.

That’s why the Bible warns us to have an eternal perspective, to focus our attention on the things of heaven, not of earth. God supplies a surplus of wealth to Christians for one reason – to provide for the needs of others, not for self-indulgence. True wealth comes with the gift of giving.

The apostle Paul defines the reason for having wealth as meeting the needs of the saints. He said, “You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God. For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God.”

God allows wealth so His people can give, the foundation for a life of selfless devotion to others.

One day we will stand before God and give an account of what we have done with His resources.  May we live in such a way to hear Jesus say, “Well done!”

If you have questions about your finances or need someone to pray with you, call the Crown Helpline at 800-722-1976.