Focus on eternal over earthly gains?
How can we prioritize eternal rewards over earthly treasures in our daily lives?

Hebrews 11:26 – Moses chose greater wealth

“He considered the reproach of Christ greater wealth than the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking ahead to his reward.”


What Moses did

• Weighed the shame of following God against the splendor of Pharaoh’s palace

• Declared Christ-centered “disgrace” richer than Egypt’s gold

• Fixed his gaze on the future reward God promises


Why eternal rewards surpass earthly treasures

• Earthly riches vanish – “What is seen is temporary.” (2 Corinthians 4:18)

• Heavenly treasure remains – “Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” (Matthew 6:20)

• Eternal rewards are personally prepared by Christ – “I am coming soon, and My reward is with Me.” (Revelation 22:12)

• Rewards are proportionate to faithfulness – “Each will receive his wages according to his labor.” (1 Corinthians 3:8)


Daily habits that aim the heart toward eternity

• Start mornings in Scripture, letting texts on eternity recalibrate priorities (Colossians 3:1-2)

• Budget with heaven in view: tithe first, give generously, spend last (1 Timothy 6:18-19)

• Choose simplicity over status symbols; contentment frees resources for kingdom work (Hebrews 13:5)

• Invest time in disciple-making; people are eternal, possessions are not (Matthew 28:19-20)

• Welcome ridicule for Christ rather than compromise for applause (Luke 6:22-23)

• Track acts of unseen service; the Father “who sees in secret will reward you.” (Matthew 6:4)

• Speak of eternity in conversation, keeping it vivid for yourself and others (2 Corinthians 5:11)

• End each day reviewing choices: Did they echo Egypt or eternity? (Psalm 139:23-24)


Guardrails against the pull of materialism

• Memorize warning passages such as Luke 12:15 and James 4:13-14

• Set giving goals that increase with income, not lifestyle

• Schedule regular fasts—from spending, social media, or food—to loosen earthly grip

• Surround yourself with believers who celebrate generosity more than accumulation

• Keep visible reminders (photos of missionaries, note cards of promises) where money is handled


Encouragement when sacrifice feels costly

• Present sufferings are “producing for us an eternal glory” beyond comparison (2 Corinthians 4:17)

• Even a cup of cold water given in Jesus’ name “will certainly not lose its reward.” (Matthew 10:42)

• God records every faithful deed – “Your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58)

• Eternal inheritance is “imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, reserved in heaven for you.” (1 Peter 1:4)


Living today with tomorrow’s reward in mind

Moses exchanged Egypt’s vaults for Christ’s verdict: “Well done.” When daily choices echo that exchange—seeking Christ’s approval over culture’s applause—earthly treasures lose their shine, and eternal rewards grow brighter, guiding every step until faith becomes sight.

What does 'disgrace for the sake of Christ' mean in Hebrews 11:26?
Top of Page
Top of Page