Do Not Store Up for Yourselves Understanding the Biblical Teaching on Wealth and PrioritiesIn the Bible, there are several teachings about wealth and material possessions. One of the most prominent lessons comes from Jesus’ words in the Gospel of Matthew "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth" (Matthew 619). This verse, and others like it, challenge believers to rethink their priorities and their relationship with money and possessions. What does it truly mean to not store up treasures for ourselves? And how can this teaching influence how we live our daily lives? In this topic, we will explore the meaning of this biblical directive and how it can shape a believer’s life and faith.
What Does "Do Not Store Up for Yourselves" Mean?
At the core of this biblical teaching is the idea that material wealth should not be the central focus of a believer’s life. Jesus speaks directly to the human tendency to accumulate wealth and possessions as a way to secure one’s future or to find personal fulfillment. The phrase "do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth" emphasizes the temporary nature of earthly possessions.
The Bible recognizes that people need to work, earn a living, and provide for their families. However, it also warns against the danger of becoming overly focused on accumulating wealth. In Matthew 619-21, Jesus contrasts earthly treasures with heavenly treasures
"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." (Matthew 619-21, NIV)
The Temporary Nature of Earthly Treasures
In this passage, Jesus points out that material possessions are fleeting. They can be destroyed, stolen, or simply decay over time. A house, a car, or any material good may seem valuable now, but it does not last forever. This is an important reminder that wealth cannot provide lasting security or meaning in life.
Wealth can also create a false sense of security. When we place our hope in things that can be lost or destroyed, we are building on an unstable foundation. Jesus encourages believers to look beyond the material world to something eternal heavenly treasures that cannot be taken away.
The Eternal Value of Heavenly Treasures
Heavenly treasures are those things that are of eternal significance. They are not material possessions but rather the investments we make in our relationship with God and others. These treasures include acts of kindness, loving others, sharing the gospel, and living according to God’s will. These are the things that have eternal value and cannot be destroyed or taken from us.
By focusing on heavenly treasures, believers are encouraged to shift their priorities. Instead of spending all their energy and resources on accumulating material wealth, they are urged to invest in things that honor God and reflect His love. The investment in heavenly treasures leads to a life of purpose, joy, and fulfillment that extends beyond this earthly existence.
The Danger of Materialism
Materialism is a common pitfall for many people, especially in today’s consumer-driven culture. It often encourages people to constantly strive for more more money, more possessions, more status. The idea of accumulating wealth can become all-consuming, and the pursuit of material success can overshadow spiritual growth and relationships.
Jesus warns against this in Matthew 624, where He says
"No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other." (Matthew 624, NIV)
This teaching highlights the inherent conflict between serving God and serving money. When wealth and material possessions become the driving force of our lives, they can take the place of God and become idols. The more we focus on accumulating earthly treasures, the less we focus on the eternal, spiritual aspects of life.
Living with an Eternal Perspective
To avoid the trap of materialism, believers are called to live with an eternal perspective. This means viewing our time, resources, and energy through the lens of God’s kingdom. Rather than investing solely in the things of this world, we are encouraged to invest in relationships, service, and the work of the gospel.
An eternal perspective changes the way we approach our daily lives. It shifts our focus from short-term goals to long-term, kingdom-minded goals. Instead of working tirelessly to accumulate wealth for personal comfort, we focus on living generously and using our resources to bless others and advance God’s work on earth.
The Call to Generosity
One way to "store up treasures in heaven" is through generosity. The Bible calls believers to give to those in need, support ministries that spread the gospel, and be good stewards of the resources God has entrusted to us. Jesus commended those who gave out of their poverty, demonstrating that it is not the amount we give, but the heart behind the giving that matters.
In Luke 1233, Jesus encourages His followers to give
"Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys." (Luke 1233, NIV)
Generosity is not just about money. It also involves time, talents, and resources. When we live with a generous spirit, we are storing up heavenly treasures and reflecting God’s love and grace to the world around us.
Finding True Security in God
The Bible teaches that true security is found not in wealth, but in God. When we seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, He promises to take care of our needs (Matthew 633). This doesn’t mean that we will never face hardship or want, but it means that our ultimate security rests in the hands of a loving and faithful God.
Believers are encouraged to trust in God’s provision, knowing that He is more than capable of meeting our needs. By seeking God first, we are aligning our hearts with His will and trusting in His faithfulness rather than placing our trust in the uncertainty of wealth.
"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth" is a teaching that calls believers to shift their focus from the temporary things of this world to the eternal things of God. Material wealth may offer temporary satisfaction, but it cannot provide lasting security or purpose. By investing in heavenly treasures through acts of kindness, generosity, and living according to God’s will we store up treasures that will never fade away.
Living with an eternal perspective allows believers to avoid the dangers of materialism and to focus on what truly matters. As we prioritize God’s kingdom and His righteousness, we find true security, fulfillment, and joy. Ultimately, the wealth that we accumulate in heaven will be far greater than anything we could ever possess on earth.