“Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven…”
— Matthew 6:19–20 (NKJV)
Having explored the eternal crowns and rewards available to believers, the next question becomes deeply personal: Where are we investing our lives? Jesus clearly teaches that life is not just about earthly accumulation, but about eternal investment.
Every decision, action, and priority contributes either to temporary gain or eternal reward.
Understanding Heavenly Treasures
Heavenly treasures are the eternal rewards that come from living a life that honors God and advances His kingdom.
“…lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven…”
— Matthew 6:20 (NKJV)
These treasures are not material possessions but include:
Acts of obedience
Faithful service
Generosity and giving
Souls impacted for Christ
Righteous living
Unlike earthly wealth, heavenly treasures are secure and everlasting.
The Temporary Nature of Earthly Wealth
Jesus highlights the uncertainty and fragility of earthly possessions.
“…where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal.”
— Matthew 6:19 (NKJV)
Earthly treasures:
Can be lost or destroyed
Do not provide lasting fulfillment
Cannot be taken beyond this life
This does not mean possessions are evil, but they must not become our focus or priority.
The Condition of the Heart
Where we invest reveals what we truly value.
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
— Matthew 6:21 (NKJV)
The location of our treasure determines:
Our priorities
Our decisions
Our spiritual focus
A heart fixed on heaven will pursue things of eternal significance.
Living with an Eternal Mindset
An eternal mindset transforms how believers approach life.
“If then you were raised with Christ, seek those things which are above…”
— Colossians 3:1–2 (NKJV)
This mindset involves:
Prioritizing spiritual growth
Making decisions with eternity in view
Valuing God’s kingdom above worldly gain
It shifts focus from temporary success to eternal impact.
Generosity as Eternal Investment
Giving is one of the clearest ways to store up treasures in heaven.
“Give, and it will be given to you…”
— Luke 6:38 (NKJV)
Generosity reflects:
Trust in God’s provision
Love for others
Commitment to God’s work
What is given for God’s purposes is never lost—it is invested in eternity.
Serving with Eternal Impact
Service done for God contributes to heavenly reward.
“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men.”
— Colossians 3:23–24 (NKJV)
Every act of service:
Has eternal significance
Is seen and rewarded by God
Contributes to heavenly treasure
No act done for God is insignificant.
Single-Minded Devotion
Jesus calls for undivided loyalty.
“No one can serve two masters…”
— Matthew 6:24 (NKJV)
Believers must choose between:
Living for God
Living for material pursuits
A divided heart cannot fully invest in eternity.
Trusting God for Provision
Focusing on eternal treasures requires trust in God’s daily provision.
“But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things shall be added to you.”
— Matthew 6:33 (NKJV)
God promises to provide for those who prioritize His kingdom. This frees believers from anxiety and allows them to focus on what truly matters.
Reflection Questions
Where am I currently investing most of my time and energy?
Do my priorities reflect an eternal or temporary focus?
How can I intentionally store up treasures in heaven?
Is my heart more attached to earthly success or eternal reward?
Prayer Points
Prayer for Eternal Focus:
Lord, help me to value what is eternal over what is temporary.
Prayer for a Generous Heart:
Teach me to give and invest in Your kingdom faithfully.
Prayer for Right Priorities:
Align my heart with Your will and purpose.
Prayer for Trust:
Help me trust You fully for my needs as I seek Your kingdom first.