Command 13 : Lay Up Treasures | Day 90

Picture Eternal Treasures!

It is easy to picture treasures on earth—abundance of money, valuable possessions, expensive cars, an extravagant home, etc. However, it is much more difficult to picture treasures in heaven, which we cannot see. Yet, God instructs us to lay up treasures in heaven.

The human mind needs to picture things before the human heart can attach affections to them.

The rich young ruler faced a huge challenge when Jesus told him to give away all his earthly treasures in exchange for treasures in heaven. He could see the treasures on earth, but he probably could not picture heavenly treasures. Therefore, “he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions” (Matthew 19:22).

Paul makes a similar statement to believers. If we distribute our money to the poor, God will multiply the fruits of our righteousness, which will last throughout eternity. (See II Corinthians 9:9-10.) How can we picture the fruits of righteousness? This is important to understand since we are told to seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and then everything else will be added to us (see Matthew 6:33).

We can invest in at least four types of righteous fruit that are named in Scripture, knowing that they have eternal value. These types of fruit include children, who are the fruit of the womb (see Psalm 127:3); Godly character, which is the fruit of the Spirit (see Ephesians 5:9); generous contributions, which are fruit that abound to our account (see Philippians 4:17); and converts whom we disciple, who are the fruit of our rejoicing (see Romans 1:13).

God also promises eternal crowns, which He gives on the basis of our faithfulness. There is the crown of righteousness for those who look forward to Christ's appearing (see II Timothy 4:7-8), the crown of glory for those who disciple others (see I Peter 5:1-4), and the crown of life for those who endure temptations (see Revelation 2:10).

The praise of thanksgiving that others give to God for our generosity will ring throughout eternity in heaven.

While God keeps the records, it would be wise for us to ask ourselves several questions. Do we view children as burdens or as blessings? Is the fruit of the Spirit clearly evident in our lives? Do we actively seek opportunities to witness? How many disciples have we made? How much of our resources have we invested in the Lord's work? Are we determined to be faithful to the end?