Wealth and riches are not condemned in scripture. But those who place too much emphasis on them are warned in no uncertain terms of it being foolishness. (Luke 12:15-21; 1 Tim. 6:9-10) Saving for a “rainy day,” for emergencies, and for retirement is always wise and in keeping with biblical teaching; however, there are some things even more important. Jesus said, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth… but lay up for yourselves treasure in heaven… for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matt. 6:19-21)
The Lord addresses the relationship that His disciples are to have with material possessions. He draws a clear-cut distinction between the right and wrong way to regard the material things of this world. Two-thirds of His parables have to do with the right attitude and proper use of our material blessings. His teaching is badly needed today since we live in one of the most materialistic nations on earth, and oftentimes, we become too caught up in material pursuits.
Treasures On Earth Are Inferior And Insecure – Christ did not say that it is wrong to accumulate material wealth. Rather, He condemned the selfish motive in getting and using wealth. He warns against undue concern for it to the point of becoming covetous. Scripture labels covetousness as “idolatry” (Col. 3:5), and warns that it can keep one from going to heaven. (1 Cor. 6:9-10)
Also, earthly treasures are not secure. They rust or decay, and people steal them. In our day, many lose money by making poor investments. Money is wasted by heaping up “stuff” that we do not need and things that we will never use. They are stored in the attic, or in the garage, just in case we may need them someday. Our nation is in debt in the trillions, and our people are increasing their debt load every year. People buy what they cannot afford and do not take care of what they have. Foreclosures and bankruptcies are at an all-time high because of the desire for more, better, and bigger material things. And it’s all so inferior and insecure.
Treasures In Heaven Are Superior And Secure – The question may be asked as to how we lay up treasures in heaven. First and foremost, the greatest treasure we have is our soul. Jesus asked, “For what profit is it to a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” (Matt. 16:26) We can get over losing material things, but if you lose your soul, you will never get over it!
Salvation brings the hope of everlasting life and the eternal “mansions” (dwelling places) in heaven. Our spiritual service in God’s kingdom also lays up treasures in heaven. Eternal blessings are promised to His servants: “Well done, good and faithful servant… enter into the joy of your Lord.” (Matt. 25:21-23) Rest from our labors is promised to those who die in the Lord. (Rev. 14:13) But we must live in the Lord in order to die in the Lord.
Mary hungered for the fellowship and the words that Jesus spoke, which would never be taken from her. (Luke 10:38-42) So must we. The prayers and alms of Cornelius went up as a memorial before God. (Acts 10:4) So do ours. And then, there are the souls of others that we are able to influence to go to heaven. Paul referred to his converts as his “joy and crown.” (Phil. 4:1) Everything we do for the Lord, and everything we give to His cause is laying up treasures in heaven. And it’s all superior and secure.
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