Treasures!

Treasures!

“Don’t keep hoarding for yourselves earthly treasures that can be stolen by thieves. Material wealth eventually rusts, decays, and loses its value. Matthew 6:19 TPT

Where is the right balance? Life requires the usage of things but when is getting more just enough? As we grow older, our needs as well as our pursuits and priorities change, but it appears from today's extract that there are some things that are fundamental to our lives and which will never change, no matter how old we get or how complex our lives become.

First, there is an earthly phase and an eternal realm. These are realities that are not dependent on our beliefs but on God's preordained purpose. God expects that I will use the earthly phase to prepare for my eternal reality. Some men have learnt the right balance; some have not, and as you observe your own life, you will not be in doubt as to what your priorities are. 

Secondly, nothing in the earthly phase will outlive that phase. You are formed from the earth, but your real self is not of the earth and will not perish with the earth. That has already been established by God. If all you are pursuing now are things of the earth, it means you do not have any thoughts for your eternal reality. Unfortunately, things of the earth are also subject to the uncertainties of the earth. Rust, decay and theft are a major part of the earthly phase, so if all you have laboured for and amassed are things that are subject to these varying conditions, then you are indeed poor. 

This then appears to be right conclusion: enjoy the resources of the earth but do not be deceived by them. Buy them for your use but do not attach any importance to them. Let the eternal reality dwell as your daily consideration; after all, nothing down here will be of value to you in eternity, except that which is of God which you had personalised before you changed residence. While you are still alive, you have the opportunity to make sure you are headed in the right direction. Eternity is too long a time not to be sure of where you will spend it. His time of favour is here.