In what ways can we focus on eternal treasures instead of earthly riches? Anchoring in Proverbs 23:5 “When you set your eyes on wealth, it disappears, for it sprouts wings and flies away like an eagle toward the sky.” Setting our sights beyond the disappearing dollar • Earthly riches are fleeting—Scripture likens them to an eagle swiftly soaring out of reach. • The brevity of money’s security urges us to redirect our gaze to what cannot evaporate (cf. James 4:14). • Matthew 6:19-21 echoes this warning: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven… For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” What makes eternal treasure different? • Permanence—1 Peter 1:4 describes an “inheritance incorruptible, undefiled, and unfading.” • God-centered—treasures in heaven are inseparable from relationship with Christ (Colossians 3:1-4). • People-focused—souls last forever; possessions do not (Luke 15:7). Practical ways to invest in forever 1. Cultivate contentment – “Keep your lives free from the love of money and be content with what you have.” (Hebrews 13:5) – Regular gratitude lists counteract the itch for more. 2. Prioritize generosity – “Instruct them to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share.” (1 Timothy 6:18) – Budget firstfruits giving, not leftovers. 3. Support gospel work – Philippians 4:17: Paul seeks “the fruit that increases to your credit.” Kingdom giving translates into eternal dividends. 4. Invest time in people – Disciple a younger believer, visit the lonely, mentor children—relationships echo into eternity (1 Thessalonians 2:19-20). 5. Practice Sabbath rhythms – Regular rest declares trust that God, not wealth, sustains (Exodus 20:8-11; Matthew 11:28-29). 6. Simplify possessions – Periodically declutter and donate. Fewer anchors on earth make hearts lighter toward heaven (Luke 12:33). Guardrails for the heart • Daily Scripture intake keeps desires aligned with truth (Psalm 119:36-37). • Accountability with a trusted believer exposes creeping materialism (Proverbs 27:17). • Frequent reflection on eternity—funerals, biographies of saints, or simple moments under the night sky—re-calibrates priorities (Ecclesiastes 7:2). A closing snapshot of lasting wealth Earthly wealth vanishes as quickly as an eagle taking flight, but every act rooted in faith, love, and obedience is safely banked with God. Fixing our eyes on Christ and His kingdom secures treasure “where no thief approaches and no moth destroys.” (Luke 12:33-34) |
    |