For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (Matt. 6:21)
GOLD PANNING is popular in the Rocky Mountains. Pans are available for sale or rent, and it isn’t hard to find a fast-moving stream that may carry gold. It has been estimated that approximate one billion ounces of gold are flowing through North America’s streams. But before you quit your day job, obtain a pan, and head for the hills, let me tell you, you may draw nothing out of a stream except icy cold hands, wet feet, loose gravel, and a sense of frustration. Although I didn’t quit my day job, I experienced all the negative results of sweeping a gold-mining pan through swift-running, shockingly cold mountain water.
My gloomy search for gold was especially embarrassing because my wife and children witnessed the debacle. However, I learned a valuable lesson. The main purpose of panning for gold should be to enjoy a trip to the mountains and an out-of-the ordinary experience.
Life spills over with this valuable lesson. Many have poured excessive energy and time into the pursuit of material wealth and possessions only to discover that the best things in life are not things. Jesus counseled us to set our hearts on treasures in heaven. He assured us they are secure and durable forever.
If we truly love God, we will value eternal treasure far beyond earthly treasure.
Show that your heart is focused on heavenly treasure today by serving God faithfully.
Jim Dyet and his wife, Gloria, have been married fifty-five years. They live in Colorado Springs, where Jim enjoys golf and daily walks with his three small dogs.
