Possession Obsession (Part 2)

Jesus taught that people should not store up treasures on earth where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal. Instead, he instructed them to store up treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal (Matthew 6:19-20). The surest way to store up treasures in heaven is to give to God’s mission here on earth. That is why it is so important to be connected to a strong local church committed to fulfilling the Great Commission of Jesus to make disciples of all nations.

It is very sad to observe so many Americans who store up treasures on earth that will one day rot or be burned in the eternal fire of judgment. Remember, we can take nothing and I mean nothing with us. After losing children, servants and personal possessions during enemy raids and violent storms, the righteous man Job said in Job 1:21, “Naked I came from my mother’s womb, and naked I will depart.” Job knew he could take nothing with him to the grave.

Selfishness and greed cause us to store up treasures on earth and not in heaven. When we live like this, our wealth brings more trouble than blessing to our lives. Recently, more Americans declared bankruptcy than graduated from college. In 90 percent of divorce cases, arguments about money play a prominent role. (Randy Alcorn, The Treasure Principle)

“Proverbs 10:22 says, “The blessing of the LORD brings wealth, and he adds no trouble to it.” Michael Vick is our most recent example of a wealthy man who has fallen into trouble because his financial priorities were out of order. According to Fox Sports writer Jeff Gordon, Vick may have flushed $100 million down the drain by a backing dog-fighting operation. His 10 year, $130 million contract will evaporate, and Falcons owner Arthur Blank could demand repayment of a least some of Vick’s $22 million signing bonus. Rather than earn $20 million a year in salary and endorsement fees for the next several years. Vick will spend millions to clean up his various legal and public relations crises.

Let’s continue to pray for people like Michael, and remember from Javos and Job that we should live our lives on earth storing up treasures in heaven. We can’t take it with us, but we can send it on ahead to heaven.

“I have made many millions, but they have brought me no happiness.” John D. Rockefellar