Where
your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Matthew 6:21
Matthew 6 [19.] “Don’t lay up treasures for yourselves on the earth, where moth and rust consume, and where thieves break through and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust consume, and where thieves don’t break through and steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Matthew 6 [24.] “No one can serve two masters, for either he will hate the one and love the other; or else he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You can’t serve both God and Mammon.
Meaning:
- The Nature of Treasures:
The term "treasure" refers not only to material wealth but also to anything that holds significant value or importance in our lives. It encompasses our possessions, ambitions, relationships, and priorities—the things we cherish and invest our time, energy, and resources in.
- The Condition of the Heart:
The verse suggests that our treasures serve as a reflection of the condition of our hearts. Where we choose to invest our most valuable resources—whether it be in earthly possessions, spiritual pursuits, or relationships—reveals our true priorities and affections. Our hearts are intimately connected to what we value and prioritize in life.
Significance:
Prioritizing Eternal Values: Matthew 6:21 challenges us to evaluate where we place our ultimate allegiance and devotion. If our treasures are primarily focused on temporal, earthly pursuits, our hearts will be tethered to the fleeting concerns of this world. However, if we prioritize eternal values and the kingdom of God, our hearts will be aligned with His purposes and priorities.
Guarding Against Idolatry: The verse warns against the danger of idolizing worldly treasures and allowing them to consume our affections. When we place undue emphasis on material wealth, status, or success, we risk idolizing these things above God Himself. Our hearts become ensnared by the pursuit of earthly gain, leading us away from the true source of fulfillment and satisfaction.
Investing in Kingdom Priorities: Matthew 6:21 encourages us to invest in treasures that have eternal significance. This includes cultivating relationships, practicing generosity, pursuing righteousness, and advancing the kingdom of God. By prioritizing these spiritual treasures, we store up riches in heaven and align our hearts with God's purposes.
Cross References:
Luke 12:34: In a parallel passage, Jesus reiterates the connection between our treasures and our hearts: "For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also." This reinforces the importance of examining the condition of our hearts in relation to what we value most in life.
Colossians 3:1-2: Exhorts believers to set their hearts and minds on things above, rather than on earthly pursuits: "Set your mind on the things that are above, not on the things that are on the earth. For you died, and your life is hidden with Christ in God."
In Conclusion: Matthew 6:21 serves as a poignant reminder of the intimate connection between our treasures and the condition of our hearts. It challenges us to examine our priorities and invest in treasures that have eternal significance. As we align our hearts with the kingdom of God, may we experience the true riches of His presence and purpose in our lives.
See also: vs 22-23
beggars - money
PIB Scriptures are derived from the World English Bible