Faith & Reason Nexus

Matthew 6:19-21

THREE THINGS TO RECOGNIZE ABOUT WEALTH

1. RECOGNIZE THAT WEALTH DIRECTS US
   • Matthew 6:20 – “Lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal.”
     • Wealth has the power to guide our decisions, priorities, and actions. We can choose to invest in eternal things, such as love, kindness, and service to others, or in temporary, material pursuits. What we value most will determine where we direct our time, energy, and resources.
2. RECOGNIZE THAT WEALTH DECEIVES US
   • Matthew 6:19 – “Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal.”
     • Wealth can deceive us into thinking it offers security, happiness, or fulfillment. However, earthly possessions are fleeting and subject to decay or loss. The promise of lasting satisfaction through material wealth is empty, as it can be easily destroyed or taken away.
3. RECOGNIZE THAT WEALTH DIVIDES US
   • Matthew 6:21 – “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.”
     • Wealth has the potential to divide our hearts, our relationships, and our focus. When we place our trust and affection in material things, we may neglect what truly matters: relationships with God and others. It can lead to greed, jealousy, and division rather than unity and love.

DO YOU ALLOW YOUR POSSESSIONS TO POSSESS YOU?

• Are your possessions controlling your life and choices, or are you using them for greater good? The question challenges us to examine whether we are slaves to wealth or stewards of what God has entrusted to us.