Storing up treasure in heaven is not about building your Kingdom but the Kingdom of God. Unfortunately, the world tells us that life is all about how much treasure you can accumulate in this world. The assumption is this is what will make you happy. Think about the toys you played with as a child. You probably spent hours playing with those dolls, cars, or games, and now they are either stored away or discarded in a landfill. Your new car will rust and eventually break down. Such is the life cycle of our earthly possessions.
King Solomon was the wealthiest king in the history of Israel who pursued the treasures of this world but found out it was an empty pursuit. Solomon writes in Ecclesiastes 2:11But as I looked at everything I had worked so hard to accomplish, it was all so meaningless—like chasing the wind. There was nothing really worthwhile anywhere. [1]
The Lord Calls Us to Bless Others
A man asked Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life. After telling Jesus about his spiritual life, the Lord showed him what was hindering his relationship with God. His wealth was an obstruction. Mark 10:21Go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” 22 At this, the man’s face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions. [2]
Jesus was showing him he could free himself from the chains of riches. He would find treasure by giving to others. There is a blessing in sharing with others. Hebrews 3: 16 And don’t forget to do good and to share with those in need. These are the sacrifices that please God. [3]
Storing Treasure in Heaven
When we store treasure in heaven, it is always safe and secure. Storing eternal treasure shows that our hearts are concerned about the Lord and building up others. We receive a new birth through Jesus Christ when we come to faith. Like the man, we discover a hidden treasure that is more valuable than anything we have. We don’t do this out of guilt but joy. Our relationship with Jesus satisfies our longings more than any treasure the world can offer.
Matthew 6:19Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. 21 Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. [4] What a blessing to have the opportunity to share what God has given you with others.
To learn more about storing up treasure in heaven, listen here:
https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/mark-when-riches-rob-you-of-jesus
[1-4] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Tyndale House Publishers.