Lost Treasure

READ: Isaiah 33:2-6

Few things were more devastating to the ancient Israelites than a swarm of locusts. Farmers who had invested months of labor and spent many evenings gazing upon their fields at what was certain to be an abundant harvest were in moments brought to tears as they watched their toil come to nothing, their families reduced to poverty and probable starvation. 

This is what will become of the treasures of the kingdoms of this world when the God of justice makes his power known.

Will you be among those suffering great loss on that day?

Seriously, consider it. 1 Corinthians 3 says that those who build on the foundation of Christ will have their work tested by fire. Build wisely, receive a reward; build foolishly, suffer great loss. Yes, all in Christ will pass into life, but some as ones escaping through the flames.

In Luke 12:15, Jesus warns us, “Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.” He goes on to tell a parable about a rich man who stored up his wealth thinking he would have many years of leisure to enjoy it only for God to prematurely take his life, separating him forever from the fruit of his labors.

I too once lived like this man, working hard to earn more and more money, saving and investing, only to see much of my wealth wiped out by a sudden reverse in the stock market. My efforts felt so futile then, but I learned the wisdom in Christ’s instruction: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” (Matthew 6:19-20)

What's in Your Wallet?

The greedy stir up conflict,    but those who trust in the Lord will prosper. (Proverbs 28:25)
There was a time when I was involved in an Amway business venture. The concept made sense at first, but then, as I got more involved I learned their philosophy differed greatly from mine. The leaders would encourage their team to work, work, work. Because it was all about getting rich. At the time, to two young parents who struggled financially, this sounded like an answer.

It was all about how much security you gain from wealth. It was all about making the business your priority and in due time, you would be so rich you could devote as much of your time and money to your church as you wanted.

I realize now, that there are some riches which don't matter one bit. In the grand scheme of things, you can't buy your health, even though you could pay your doctor bills easier. You can't put a price tag on friends and family either. You can't buy more time, happiness or love.

So then perhaps it isn't currency or jewels that make us rich, but the people who love us and would do anything for us. I know now, after having lost close loved ones, moments spent caring for them is a sweet richness. And, being cared for by someone precious to me, is the true picture of my assets. My bank account, not so much. My family and friends, for certain.

How rich are you? 

Proverbs 28:19-25

Prayer is Laughing - At Foolishness

Psalm 49:16-20 (NIV)
Do not be overawed when a man grows rich, when the splendor of his house increases; for he will take nothing with him when he dies, his splendor will not descend with him. Though while he lived he counted himself blessed-- and men praise you when you prosper--he will join the generation of his fathers, who will never see the light [of life].  A man who has riches without understanding is like the beasts that perish. 

Are you impressed with wealth or fame?  Does the fact someone has material things draw you to them?  Do you envy their position and yearn to be like them?  It does seem in this day that many are 'star-struck', thinking celebrities have it all together.  Our politicians even seem to long to rub elbows with those who have an abundance of earthly riches.

These five verses tell us that "you can't take it with you," something we have known for long.  But, we still want to have more.  The command," Do not be overawed when a man grows rich, when the splendor of his house increases" is worth contemplating.  Many of us have known some who, in our opinion, have it all. But we also recognize that many times they are not happy.  This points us to the last verse, A man who has riches without understanding is like the beasts that perish. 

The grass is always greener on the other side of the fence if we don't truly know what we have on our own side.  Sitting at my desk which overlooks my front yard, I see a bright green lawn.  From where I sit it looks admirable; lots of color, very full.  But upon closer scrutiny, when I get up from my chair and walk outside to examine the greenery I see it is loaded with lots of colorful and healthy weeds!

The lesson is not to be impressed with someone's social standing until you know where they stand. There is only one with whom we need be impressed and that is Jesus. Walking in His ways is best.


Psalm 49, 50 and 51

Rich Young Man - Matthew 19:16-30

"Jesus answered, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” (Matthew 19:21)

I have always felt sorry for the man in this story.  I guess it is because I grew up poor and dreamed of having lots of money to buy whatever I needed.  I couldn't identify with the man, but thought that if I were rich I couldn't give it all away either.

By the same token, I would read stories of the martyrs, those who loved Jesus so much they gave up their lives for him, and could totally see myself doing that. Now, granted, I was a child at the time of these imaginings, and I did reside in a dream world, but I can't help but wonder about these two scenarios.

Now that I am an adult I struggle with both of these concepts of love.  I want to be the person who could give it all away to gain Jesus.  I long to have the character of one who would be willing to do anything God asked me to do. But I know myself, I know that I am selfish.  I could never do that on my own.   God only wants for me to be willing,

He wants to turn my world upside down and show me how much He loves.  He wants me to have the faith that He will do what is best for me.  It is faith in Christ, not in self or riches that counts.  He wants me to become willing. How about you, are you willing to become willing?

To read the text for today go here.