Jesus told His followers: "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 were thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." Matthew 6:19-21
What do earthly treasures look like? Our homes, our cars, our bank accounts, our clothing and possessions. How many of these things could withstand a fire, or rust or decay? Over time, the newness wears off, the roof may start to leak, the tires get worn out, fashion trends change, the stock market crashes, appliances quit working, or our treasures get stolen. In short, they don't last and we can't take any of them with us when we pass from this life.
Jesus knows that we need the basics of life to survive, we all need food, clothing and shelter. We need enough money to support and take care of our families, but are we viewing these necessities from an eternal standpoint? Are we spending more time and money in maintaining an outward appearance than we are in maintaining a relationship with God?
We are to store up treasures in heaven because they are eternal, they will never break down, wear out or lose their value. So, what do heavenly treasures look like? They look like the faces of those we have ministered to and loved while we have lived on earth. But how have we ministered to others? By the kind words we've spoken, the prayers lifted in their behalf, by sharing our food, clothing, and resources with them. The ways we have shown compassion through a healing touch or gentle instruction. The money we have given to missionaries so they can minister in other lands. When we give a hug, share our talents or give of our time to help others, we are storing up treasures in heaven.
Whenever we sacrifice for the good of others we are adding to our treasury. All of these things can never be destroyed, burned up or stolen. And an amazing thing about these treasures is that they aren't for us, they all belong to our Father God. If we give God first place in our hearts then we already have a treasure that can never be taken from us.
We are God's treasured possession, He loves us and has redeemed us. (Deuteronomy 7:6-8) That is a treasure in itself and a fear of the Lord is the key to this treasure. (Isaiah 33:6) If we are in Christ, we can be assured that in Him all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden. (Colossians 2:3) What do these scriptures say about treasures? We, as God's children are treasures to Him, a fear or reverence for the Him is key to becoming one of His treasures and the treasures of wisdom and knowledge can be ours when we give Christ first place in our hearts.
So how do we go about storing up these treasures? What can we do? If we are followers of Christ, we have the Spirit of God living in us and that Spirit can give us very clear direction. Spend some time in prayer and ask the Holy Spirit to show you ways that you can be a blessing to others. It may be as simple as sending a card to someone, calling those you know who need a friend or donating your time to a soup kitchen or food pantry. God often blesses us so that we can be a blessing to others. Let His Spirit direct you and then be obedient.