Connect Ecclesiastes 1:3 with Matthew 6:19-21 on storing treasures in heaven. Opening the Text “What does a man gain from all his labor at which he toils under the sun?” “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 neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” The Question of Gain • Solomon’s searching phrase “under the sun” frames life from a strictly earthly vantage point. • He observes the limited, temporary payoff of toil when measured only by material results. • Without an eternal perspective, the conclusion repeatedly surfaces: “Vanity of vanities” (Ecclesiastes 1:2). Jesus’ Eternal Answer • Jesus redirects attention from earthbound profit to everlasting investment. • He affirms a realm where valuables remain untouched by decay, theft, or loss. • The heart always gravitates toward what it values; securing treasure in heaven secures the heart in heaven’s direction (Colossians 3:1-4). Bringing the Passages Together • Ecclesiastes highlights the futility of gain “under the sun.” • Matthew reveals the fulfillment of gain “above the sun,” in the presence of God. • Earthly labor has meaning when it is harnessed for heavenly purposes (1 Corinthians 15:58). What Counts as Heavenly Treasure • Generous giving that serves Christ’s body and advances the gospel (1 Timothy 6:17-19; Philippians 4:17). • Acts of mercy done in secret, known to the Father (Matthew 6:3-4). • Faithful stewardship of work and talents offered as worship (Colossians 3:23-24). • Evangelism and discipleship, leading people to eternal life (Daniel 12:3; 1 Thessalonians 2:19). • Persevering obedience and endurance under trial (James 1:12; Revelation 22:12). Practical Steps for Today 1. Set aside firstfruits of income for kingdom work before allocating personal expenses. 2. Schedule regular service to meet tangible needs—food banks, visitation, hospitality. 3. Integrate prayer for coworkers, neighbors, and unreached peoples into daily routine. 4. Simplify lifestyle choices, treating surplus as seed for eternal investment rather than personal upgrade. 5. Measure success by faithfulness to Christ’s call rather than accumulation or acclaim. Encouragement and Assurance • God records and rewards every cup of cold water given in Jesus’ name (Matthew 10:42). • What appears small on earth often registers great weight in heaven (Mark 12:41-44). • The Lord Himself is the believer’s ultimate inheritance and exceedingly great reward (Genesis 15:1; Psalm 73:25-26). Earthly toil finds lasting meaning when aligned with Christ’s command to store treasures where they endure forever. |
    |