How can we cultivate a mindset focused on eternal treasures over temporary pleasures? The Short-Sighted Self-Talk of the Rich Fool “Then I will say to myself, ‘You have plenty of good things laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink, and be merry.’ ” (Luke 12:19) The rich fool’s words expose a heart settled into earthbound comfort. He calculates longer barns but not a longer view. Scripture records the scene to warn us: a life centered on momentary pleasure is tragically small when eternity is real. Why Temporary Pleasures Cannot Satisfy • They expire with the body-—“For we brought nothing into the world, and we cannot take anything out of it.” (1 Timothy 6:7) • They dull spiritual hunger-—“The cares of this life…choke the word.” (Luke 8:14) • They provoke false security-—“Whoever trusts in his riches will fall.” (Proverbs 11:28) Shifting Our Gaze to Eternal Treasures 1. Remember Christ’s command • “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth…But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” (Matthew 6:19-20) 2. Renew the mind daily • “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” (Colossians 3:2) 3. Rehearse the fleeting nature of the world • “The world is passing away, along with its desires, but whoever does the will of God remains forever.” (1 John 2:17) Practical Habits that Anchor the Heart in Eternity • Schedule regular fasting from non-essential comforts—training the soul to say no. • Give generously and anonymously—converting possessions into heavenly dividends (Luke 12:33). • Keep a gratitude journal aimed at spiritual gifts—faith, forgiveness, fellowship. • End each day asking, “Did today’s choices echo in eternity?” • Surround yourself with believers who talk about heaven as home (Hebrews 10:24-25). Promises That Fuel Perseverance • Enduring glory outweighs light, momentary trials (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). • An imperishable crown awaits those who run to win (1 Corinthians 9:25). • Christ Himself is our “very great reward” (Genesis 15:1). Living the Difference Today When the rich fool whispered “eat, drink, and be merry,” he traded forever for a fleeting feast. We cultivate an eternal mindset by rehearsing God’s Word, redirecting resources toward kingdom purposes, and daily choosing what will matter when barns, bodies, and bank accounts are gone. Every decision becomes a seed—planted either in temporary soil or in fields that harvest joy “that will never be taken away” (John 16:22). |
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