Last year, we were taking a devotional look at the sermon on the mount (Matthew 5-7). After we finished looking at Jesus’ teaching on prayer, we took a little break but now it’s time to get back to it.
For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. - Matthew 6:21 ESV
Before we get to this verse in Matthew 6, Jesus has been giving a series of instructions on how we should live for God and not for the praise of men. He’s given us don’ts and dos for giving, praying, and fasting. Then He urges us to lay up treasure in heaven, not on earth (Matthew 6:19-20), and finally concludes with this statement about our treasure and our hearts.
I’ve frequently heard Matthew 6:21 used to exhort people to check their values and their motives. And I think it’s a good idea to stop and check ourselves from time to time. But thinking of the context gives me a slightly different perspective. What do I treasure more, the praise of men in this life or the blessings of God in eternity? Do I want to be rewarded now or later? For me, this is simple choice: I want what God has for me. Looking forward to my treasure in heaven helps me to keep my heart (my desires and motives) set on pleasing my Father and choosing to do things that honor Him.
I know that it can sometimes be difficult to keep my heart set on eternal things in that ordinary business of life. It can be hard to wait when life wears me down. And, let’s be honest, it’s nice to get a pat on the back at times. That recognition from others encourages me that I am doing some things right and that helps me to keep going. But that recognition shouldn’t be why I do things as a daughter of God.
Set your minds on things that are above, not on things that are on earth.
Colossians 3:2 ESV
It takes discipline and intentionality to keep my mind focused on things that are above, the hope and treasure I have I heaven. While difficult, it’s not impossible. As Jesus’ followers, we have the Holy Spirit to help us with this. Consistent, daily time in prayer and the Word is the best place to start. As we grow in knowledge and understanding of Whose kids we are, making right choices that honor Him becomes more natural to us.
His divine power has granted to us all things that pertain to life and godliness, through the knowledge of him who called us to his own glory and excellence, - 2 Peter 1:3 ESV
Think About: Where’s your treasure today?
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