Compare Ecclesiastes 4:7 with Matthew 6:19-21 on earthly vs. heavenly treasures. The Vanity of Earthly Gain (Ecclesiastes 4:7) “Again I saw futility under the sun:” • Solomon pauses to record yet another scene of “futility.” • The Hebrew word for “futility” (hebel) pictures a wisp of vapor—here for a moment, then gone. • All pursuits “under the sun” that are disconnected from God’s purposes fall into this category. Treasures That Can’t Be Taken (Matthew 6:19-21) “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” • Jesus draws a stark contrast: earthly hoarding vs. heavenly investing. • He exposes the temporary nature of physical wealth—subject to decay, loss, and theft. • He links our hearts to our treasure: wherever we habitually invest, our deepest affections follow. Shared Message: Earthly Riches Are Insecure • Solomon and Jesus both point to impermanence. – Solomon labels it “futility.” – Jesus lists moths, rust, and thieves. • Both passages warn that a life centered on accumulation will ultimately disappoint. Why Earthly Treasure Dissatisfies • Limited lifespan (Psalm 90:10) means we leave everything behind (Ecclesiastes 2:18-21). • Wealth promises security yet cannot protect from death or judgment (Hebrews 9:27). • Material focus blinds us to eternal realities (Luke 12:15-21). What Counts as Heavenly Treasure? • Loving obedience to Christ (John 14:21). • Generosity toward the needy and gospel work (1 Timothy 6:18-19; Philippians 4:17). • Investing time and talent in God’s kingdom (Colossians 3:1-2). • Cultivating Christlike character that will endure (Galatians 5:22-23). Practical Ways to Shift Our Portfolio • Budget with eternity in view—first fruits to God before lifestyle upgrades. • Simplify possessions so resources can flow to kingdom causes (Proverbs 11:24-25). • Turn daily work into worship by aiming to honor Christ and bless others (Colossians 3:23-24). • View trials as opportunities to gain perseverance and eternal reward (James 1:2-4). Heart Checkpoints • Track spending and calendar entries—they reveal actual priorities (Matthew 6:21). • Ask: Would losing this item derail my joy? If so, the item may have become a rival treasure (1 John 2:15-17). • Celebrate giving wins—each act of generosity loosens earth’s grip and tightens heaven’s hold (Acts 20:35). Reinforcing Scriptures • Proverbs 23:4-5 — Riches “sprout wings.” • James 5:2-3 — Hoarded wealth “corroded.” • Luke 12:33-34 — “Provide yourselves purses that will not wear out.” • 2 Corinthians 4:18 — Fix our eyes on “what is unseen.” Bottom Line Solomon’s sigh over futility and Jesus’ command to invest in heaven converge on the same reality: only what is anchored in God’s eternal kingdom will last. Choose your treasure accordingly—and your heart will follow. |
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