Where we put our treasure shows where our heart is headed.
“Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”Matthew 6:19-21 (KJV)
What does “Treasure” mean in Matthew 6:19-21?
Treasure means whatever we value most. Jesus says it can be stored on earth, where it wears out or is stolen, or in heaven, where nothing can touch it.
Going deeper
Jesus does not say that possessions are evil. He points out that they are fragile. Moths eat clothing, rust corrodes metal, and thieves break in. Anything we build our lives on that can be lost will eventually be lost. Treasure laid up in heaven is different. Acts of love, generosity, and faithfulness are kept safe with God. The last line of the passage says it plainly: where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.
Notice the direction of that sentence. We often think that our heart leads and our money follows. Jesus says the reverse can also be true. Where we place our treasure, our heart follows. If you want to love God more, one way is to give toward what He cares about. Lent is a good time to review your priorities. Choose one small change in how you spend time or money that puts treasure in a safer place.
Reflect
What is one change in how you spend time or money that would put your treasure in a safer place?
Pray
Lord, teach me to value what lasts. Move my heart toward You by shaping how I use what You have given me. In Jesus' name, amen.
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