In the Sermon on the Mount when Jesus identified earth and heaven as being two places where people might choose to store their treasures, he contrasted two different lifestyles (Matthew 6:19-20). We either look to the things of earth for our security and significance or we look to heaven. If self is in charge, we will seek some source of earthly security.
Jesus warned against storing up our treasures on earth because they can be stolen or deteriorate (Matthew 6:19). Such treasures are not reliable nor do they last. Yet, how often are we most concerned about earthly things like our possessions, our financial strength, whether others like us, our influence, and so forth?
Instead, Jesus commanded us to accumulate for ourselves treasures in heaven where they will last forever (Matthew 6:20). No illness, thief, or deterioration can ever destroy our acts of kindness or our obedience to God stored in heaven.
Where we store our treasure not only reveals where we are seeking our security and significance, but this will also shape our focus for how we live. In Jesus’ words, “The eye is the lamp of the body” (Matthew 6:22). Our focus determines everything about us – whether we are spiritually healthy or not.
By contrasting these two different ways to live along with their competing values and motives, Jesus cut to the heart of it all. We all serve something that rules our lives, whether that be God or some earthly-anchored source of security like money which self has chosen.
Yet, no one can serve two masters. And so, Jesus commands us, to reject storing our treasure on earth. Rather, we are to focus upon laying up our treasure in heaven. The natural reaction is to doubt whether such a focus will sustain us in the here and now.
Jesus knows us. And so he tells us to not worry about the necessities of life, because “your heavenly Father knows that you need them” (Matthew 6:32). Furthermore, Jesus promised God will provide what is needed, if we will put his kingdom first. (Matthew 6:33). Disciples can live with peace knowing God is in control.