Making Wise Investments
Where are you investing in these days? Investors are always looking for a “sure thing.” We want to make wise investments with guaranteed growth and profit, and those are hard to find! In His Sermon on the Mount, Jesus gives us a compelling investment strategy that pays eternal dividends… storing up treasures in heaven! (Matthew 6:19-24)
In this section of His sermon, Jesus continues to emphasize that we, as His followers, are to be distinct from popular culture; He lays out three alternatives for us… two treasures (Godly and earthly), two views (light and darkness) and two masters (God and money or anything else).
One thing is absolutely clear, Jesus doesn’t want us to sit on the fence when it comes to following Him! He wants us to make a choice… He wants us to decide who and what we plan to serve, pursue and honor in this world. That choice is in front of us every single day. It’s imperative that we choose wisely; that we invest wisely.
Jesus makes clear that investing in earthly treasures isn’t the best investment as He makes a strong argument for investing in what is durable and secure. That is, to invest our resources in treasures with eternal significance!
To be clear, when Jesus tells us to not store up treasures on earth, He is not forbidding us from having possessions, or planning for the future, or enjoying the wonderful blessings our God has given us. So what does it mean to store up treasures in heaven? Invest in treasures that are incorruptible and eternal; treasures that don’t depreciate or deteriorate.
How can we store up treasures in heaven?
Develop a Christ-like character. Commit to live every day in a way that reflects and honors Christ. The only thing you will take to heaven is your character… who you are in Christ! (Romans 8:1ff)
Increase your faith, hope and love. Some say, faith, hope and charity. Look for ways to serve others; to make an impression and leave a mark for Jesus Christ! (1 Corinthians 13:13; Matthew 25:45)
Lead lost people to Jesus. Build bridges, share your faith story and the Gospel with lost people; invite them to church, and be a part of seeing them grow as a disciple of Jesus. (Matthew 28:18-20)
Use your financial resources for Christ’s sake. These are the only investments that pay eternal dividends. (Malachi 3:10; 2 Corinthians 9:7)
When your heart is committed to making these eternal investments, you will store up treasures in heaven! (Matthew 6:21) For much more, including how to live with Godly purpose and drive, click here to listen to: Sermon on the Mount - Part 9 - Making Wise Investments.
