Strong spirits: where do you keep what matters most?
There is nothing wrong with having things, as long as we remember certain truths.
Where do you keep what you treasure the most?
"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... for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Jesus to his followers (Matthew 6:19-21)
"No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate one and love the other, or you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money." Jesus again (Matthew 6:24)
So, what do you treasure? People? Possessions? Positions? We all have our list, don't we? And there is nothing wrong with having these things, as long as we remember certain truths: 1) they all belong to God; 2) He needs to be given complete control over them; and 3) We have been given them to share with others.
What does it mean to have treasures in heaven? It means we put God first. That we realize all our blessings come from him. That he is our deepest and dearest treasure. "You God, are all that I have, and you give me all that I need. My future is in your hands." (Psalm 16:5)
So, where are you storing your treasure?
Gary Schwerin serves as pastor at Caledonia Congregational Church. He is also the Spiritual Development Minister for the YMCA of the Rock River Valley and Executive Director of Bridge Ministries of Rockford. Prior to launching Bridge Ministries, Gary spent many years in leadership with Young Life. His columns appear here every Sunday - to see them all, subscribe to our daily email.
