In a world where success is measured by wealth, possession, and achievement, it is easy to place our value and priority in things that do not last. We often also use these things as an indicator or standard by which we measure self-worth. As we navigate this world as followers of Christ, we are faced with two decisions: either define ourselves by who God says we are and strive toward what is valuable in the eyes of God, or define ourselves by who the world says we are and strive toward what the world values most.
The Trappings of Worldly Pleasures
Not only are we tempted to fall into the trap of measuring our worth by what we possess, but we also expect those possessions to satisfy us. When I first began to earn my own money, I would be so excited to save up for something to buy myself, whether it be new shoes, clothes, a phone, or the like. Once I’ve finally gotten it, I expect a huge feeling of elation and gratification, and those feelings do come, but they don’t last; there’s almost like an emptiness underlying this feeling. And I’m left thinking, “That’s it?” That feeling of satisfaction I expected to experience doesn’t last. The longing for something fulfilling could not be satisfied by material possessions. I’m sure I’m not alone in having such an experience. I believe this is what drives people to want more and more, chasing that desire for deep satisfaction through material things or accomplishments.
A Fleeting Satisfaction
The Bible says, in 2 Corinthians 4:18 (NKJV), “...while we do not look at the things which are seen, but at the things which are not seen. For the things which are seen are temporary, but the things which are not seen are eternal.” This verse speaks to the fact that this world, and all that we see in it, will pass away one day. This includes all of the things we’ve acquired: trophies, awards, accolades, etc. But what lasts forever is what we cannot yet see. This is why God calls us to value and strive towards that which is more than whatever we can attain on earth.
How to Store Treasures in Heaven
But what does this practically mean? If our greatest treasure is eternal rather than earthly, then our priorities should reflect that. God wants us to value our salvation and relationship with Him the most because this is the path to eternal life. In Matthew 22:35-39 (NKJV), the Pharisees ask Jesus, “Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the law?” Jesus responds, “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.” This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” This is how we store up treasures in heaven: by obeying God’s commandments and daily fostering a personal relationship with Him, and by using our gifts, talents, and abilities for the edification of our neighbors around us and to glorify God.
Lastly and most importantly, our salvation is our greatest treasure we have here on Earth, more precious than anything we could work to obtain. This fills me with so much joy, especially when I find myself over-concerned with trivial and even not-so-trivial problems life throws my way. The sacrifice of Christ on the cross, which reconciles mankind with God, is such a powerful, loving, merciful gift that trumps whatever the world can offer. And as we strive towards heaven, God promises to us treasure greater than we could imagine. I pray that God continuously reminds us of both His goodness to us here on earth and in the life to come, that we may be encouraged and excited to strive towards Heaven in all that we do here on earth.
Scripture Reading: Matthew 22:35-39; 2 Corinthians 4:18
strive toward what is valuable in the eyes of God, or to define ourselves by who the world says we are and strive towards what the world values most.
