“But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” (Matt. 6:20)
MOST OF US WORK TO EARN A LIVING. We need to provide food, clothing, and other basic necessities for ourselves and our families. Men and women have engaged in work ever since God told Adam and Eve to care for His creation. But we may find ourselves so intent on providing good things, treasures on earth, that we forget about the best thing, living a life pleasing to God.
Jesus warned against putting all our time and effort into acquiring possessions that wear out and rust out. To maintain our lifestyles, we need food, clothes, and homes, plus things such as phones and computers that have become necessities. These things benefit us only in this world. Putting time and effort into doing good deeds benefits us when we get to heaven, where we will be rewarded for living a fruitful life.
To live a life that demonstrates the fruit of the Spirit, open your eyes to daily opportunities to be a blessing to others. Show love to that contentious coworker or cranky teenager. Be patient with that elderly parent who forgets what day it is. Be gentle with the customer service representative who cannot fix a problem. The things of this world are temporary, but the blessings we give to others reach out and touch eternity.
Do something today that has eternal value.
Shirley Brosius writes from Millersburg, Pennsylvania. She is enjoys reading, walking, and playing board games with her five grandchildren.
© 2017 Wesleyan Publishing House. Reprinted from Light from the Word. Used by permission.
