How does Proverbs 22:1 connect with Matthew 6:19-21 on treasures? Setting the Scene The Bible often contrasts the value of earthly wealth with the worth of godly character. Proverbs 22:1 and Matthew 6:19-21 speak into that contrast from different angles—one from wisdom literature, the other from Jesus’ own lips—yet their heartbeat is the same. Treasure According to Proverbs 22:1 “A good name is more desirable than great riches; favor is better than silver and gold.” (Proverbs 22:1) • “A good name” = a reputation of integrity, righteousness, and covenant faithfulness • “More desirable than great riches” = character ranks higher than any bank account • “Favor” can also be translated “grace” or “loving approval,” pointing to relational wealth with God and man (cf. Luke 2:52) Key idea: True wealth is found in who you are before God and others, not in what you possess. Jesus Deepens the Lesson in 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.” (Matthew 6:19-21) • Negative command: stop stockpiling fragile, temporary wealth • Positive command: actively lay up imperishable, eternal riches • Diagnostic statement: your heart always gravitates toward whatever you treasure most Key idea: Eternity exposes the real value of every investment. Connecting the Dots • Proverbs 22:1 specifies the kind of “heavenly treasure” Jesus champions—an honorable name rooted in godly character. • Earthly riches can be lost (Matthew 6:19); a good name “lasts even to children’s children” (Proverbs 13:22). • Both passages warn that misplaced value systems distort the heart: greed erodes integrity (1 Timothy 6:9-10), while pursuing honor before God aligns the heart with heaven (Romans 2:7). • The proverb shows the content of the treasure (character); Jesus shows its location (heaven) and permanence. Living It Out Today Practical ways to treasure a “good name” and store up riches in heaven: • Guard truthfulness—let “your ‘Yes’ be ‘Yes,’ and your ‘No,’ ‘No’” (Matthew 5:37). • Show generosity—“do good… be rich in good deeds” (1 Timothy 6:18). • Cultivate humility and teachability—“God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6). • Seek reconciliation quickly—peacemaking preserves a reputation of grace (Matthew 5:23-24). • Walk transparently before God—“Serve the LORD with sincerity and truth” (Joshua 24:14). When character becomes your currency and heaven your vault, both Proverbs 22:1 and Matthew 6:19-21 are fulfilled in daily life. |
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