In Today’s Challenging Market
We have often heard the expression, “You can’t take it with you,” or, “He who dies with the most toys wins.” But, Jesus suggests that we exchange our earthly treasure for heavenly treasure and send it all ahead.
Using Leverage & Trading-Up in the Futures Market
Sending our treasures on ahead will be our finest investment. We can use eternal “leverage” and “trade-up” in the real, lasting futures market. Jesus proclaims,
“Go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me” (Mark 10:21, NLT).
Once we decide to exchange our earthly treasure for heavenly treasure we may look forward to hearing our Master say to us, “Well done, good and faithful servant; you were faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord” (Matt. 25:21, NKJV).
Specific Rewards
There are many things for which we are promised a reward. One of the most exciting rewards is for simply supporting ministries. Jesus challenged us to encourage and contribute to others when He said,
“If you receive a prophet as one who speaks for God, you will be given the same reward as a prophet. And if you receive righteous people because of their righteousness, you will be given a reward like theirs” (Matt. 10:42, NLT).
That means when we help to support our local gospel rescue mission we may be rewarded in heaven the same way as the pastor preaching to the mission’s residents. Assisting in disaster aid, giving gifts to starving children, helping to plant churches, welcoming speakers, housing guests, praying for missions and other needs, and special financial gifts are all things for which we may be rewarded by our Lord.
Today Matters – Rewards
There are three general areas of rewards or losses for Christians listed in the Bible. They are:
For what we say (Matt. 12:36-37)
For our motives – why we do things (1 Cor. 4:5)
For our works and how we treat other believers (Heb. 6:10)
Just always remember to, “Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be” (Matt. 6:20-21).
That makes every day count for eternity! It is the wisest investment advice for today’s challenging market.