How does Matthew 6:19-21 relate to Proverbs 23:5's message on wealth? Setting the Passages Side by Side “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.” “When you gaze upon riches, they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle.” What Jesus Teaches in Matthew 6:19-21 • Earthly wealth is vulnerable: moths, rust, thieves. • Heavenly treasure is secure: permanent, untouchable. • Our heart always follows our treasure; investment reveals affection. Proverbs 23:5’s Picture of Wealth • Riches attract the eye (“when you gaze”). • Wealth is temporary; it “sprout[s] wings.” • The imagery stresses sudden, irreversible loss. Shared Truths about Wealth 1. Wealth is inherently unstable. 2. Pursuit of riches can mislead the heart. 3. Real security lies beyond this world. Complementary Nuances • Proverbs describes the fleeting nature of riches; Jesus gives the solution—transfer assets to heaven. • Proverbs warns by observation; Jesus warns and commands a corrective action. Scriptures that Echo the Theme • Psalm 39:6—“Man heaps up wealth, not knowing who will gather it.” • Luke 12:15—“Life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” • 1 Timothy 6:17-19—Hope in God, “store up treasure” as “a firm foundation for the coming age.” • James 5:2-3—Wealth corrodes; misuse testifies against the owner. Practical Takeaways for Today • Examine spending and giving; does it mirror heaven-minded priorities? • Hold possessions loosely; view them as tools, not trophies. • Cultivate eternal investments—generosity, evangelism, discipleship, acts of mercy (Luke 16:9). • Measure success by faithfulness, not by financial spreadsheets. Living for the Eternal Treasury Earthly riches vanish like an eagle in flight; heavenly treasures endure. Align the heart with what lasts forever, and the rest of life finds its proper place. |
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