Material wealth is fleeting, but the Bible encourages us to store up treasures in heaven. Today, we’ll explore verses that emphasize the eternal value of spiritual investments over earthly possessions. Discover how these verses inspire us to live a purposeful life focused on heavenly rewards.
Also Read: Bible Verses About The Meaning Of Christmas
Bible Verses About Treasure In Heaven
Matthew 6:19-21
“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, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
This verse reminds us of the temporary nature of earthly possessions and encourages us to shift our focus to eternal treasures. Earthly treasures are vulnerable to decay, theft, and loss, but treasures in heaven are secure and everlasting. Our hearts and priorities should be directed towards investing in spiritual pursuits and storing up heavenly rewards. By aligning our desires with God’s will, we can experience true fulfillment and lay up treasures that will endure beyond this earthly life.
Matthew 19:21
“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.”
In this verse, Jesus challenges the rich young ruler to let go of his earthly possessions in order to experience true perfection and gain treasure in heaven. This passage highlights the importance of generosity and selflessness in our pursuit of eternal rewards. By detaching ourselves from the material world and embracing a sacrificial lifestyle, we can store up treasures in heaven and wholeheartedly follow Jesus.
Luke 12:33-34
“Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will never fail, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Similar to the previous verse, Jesus encourages his disciples to prioritize heavenly treasures over earthly possessions. By investing in the needs of others and practicing radical generosity, we can experience the joy and security of storing up an unending treasure in heaven. Our hearts and affections are naturally drawn towards the things we consider most valuable, so let us set our hearts on the eternal and let go of the temporary distractions.
1 Timothy 6:17-19
“Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.”
Paul’s instruction to Timothy encourages those who are wealthy to place their confidence not in their riches, but in God. He advises them to use their resources to bless others, be rich in good works, and practice generosity. By doing so, they can lay a solid foundation of heavenly treasure that will bring them true and abundant life in the age to come. This passage emphasizes the importance of stewardship and the eternal value of using our material blessings for the glory of God.
Matthew 13:44-46
“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field. When a man found it, he hid it again, and then in his joy went and sold all he had and bought that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant looking for fine pearls. When he found one of great value, he went away and sold everything he had and bought it.”
These parables by Jesus depict the immense value of the kingdom of heaven. They portray a man and a merchant who willingly give up everything to possess the treasure they have found. These stories illustrate the incomparable worth and delight that come from surrendering all to follow Jesus. It is a reminder that the reward of heaven far outweighs any sacrifice we may make in this life. May we be willing to let go of worldly attachments and pursue the ultimate treasure of knowing and experiencing God’s kingdom.
Colossians 3:1-2
“Since, then, you have been raised with Christ, set your hearts on things above, where Christ is, seated at the right hand of God. Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.”
In this passage, Paul encourages believers to fix their hearts and minds on heavenly realities rather than being consumed by earthly concerns. By embracing our identity as those who have been united with Christ in his resurrection, we are called to seek the things that are above and not be entangled by the pursuits of this world. Let us direct our focus towards our eternal inheritance in heaven and live in a manner that reflects our citizenship in God’s kingdom.
Hebrews 11:26
“He regarded disgrace for the sake of Christ as of greater value than the treasures of Egypt because he was looking ahead to his reward.”
This verse speaks of Moses’ choice to endure hardships and a life of faith rather than enjoying the temporary pleasures of wealth and status in Egypt. This decision was driven by his anticipation of the ultimate reward that awaited him, which far outweighed anything the world could offer. It challenges us to place greater value on the reward of following Christ, even when it requires sacrifice and goes against the world’s definition of success. Let us fix our gaze on the eternal prize and be willing to endure temporary difficulties for the sake of eternity.
2 Corinthians 4:17-18
“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all. So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.”
Paul reminds us that the challenges and trials we face in this life are temporary and fleeting compared to the eternal glory that awaits us in heaven. By keeping our focus on the unseen and eternal, we are able to endure and persevere through the hardships, knowing that they are working for our ultimate good. This verse encourages us to have an eternal perspective and to not lose heart in the face of difficulties, but to place our hope in the promises of God and the eternity that lies ahead.
Luke 18:22
“When Jesus heard this, he said to him, “You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”
In this encounter with the rich young ruler, Jesus challenges him to let go of his attachments to material possessions in order to experience a deeper relationship with Him and gain treasure in heaven. This verse reminds us that earthly riches can hinder our spiritual journey and prevent us from fully surrendering to Christ. Let us examine our own lives and be willing to release anything that competes with our devotion and commitment to Jesus, knowing that true treasure is found in following Him wholeheartedly.
James 2:5
“Listen, my dear brothers and sisters: Has not God chosen those who are poor in the eyes of the world to be rich in faith and to inherit the kingdom he promised those who love him?”
James challenges our perception of wealth and poverty by reminding us that God often chooses those who are considered poor by the world’s standards to inherit the riches of His kingdom. This verse calls us to value faith and love for God above earthly wealth or status. It encourages us to recognize that our true inheritance lies in our relationship with Him, which is of infinitely greater worth than material possessions. May we embrace the richness of faith and love in Christ, regardless of our earthly circumstances.
Mark 8:36-37
“What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul? Or what can anyone give in exchange for their soul?”
This powerful admonition from Jesus challenges us to reassess our priorities and evaluate the true worth of our pursuits. No amount of worldly gain or success can compare to the eternal value of our souls. This verse prompts us to consider whether we are investing our time, energy, and resources in things that have eternal significance or if we are being consumed by temporary and trivial matters. Let us seek after the things that truly matter and prioritize our soul’s relationship with God above all else.
Romans 8:18
“I consider that our present sufferings are not worth comparing with the glory that will be revealed in us.”
This verse reminds us of the incomparable nature of the glory that will be revealed to the children of God. The temporary sufferings and trials we experience in this life pale in comparison to the eternal joy and reward that await us. It encourages us to endure with hope and perseverance, knowing that the future glory will far outweigh any present difficulties. May we fix our gaze on the eternal hope that is ours in Christ and press on in faith, even in the midst of trials.
1 Peter 1:3-4
“Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ! In his great mercy he has given us new birth into a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, and into an inheritance that can never perish, spoil or fade. This inheritance is kept in heaven for you.”
This passage highlights the immeasurable value of the inheritance that awaits believers in heaven. Through the mercy of God, we have been born again into a living hope and a secure inheritance that is imperishable and eternal. This verse encourages us to find our ultimate delight and security in the promises of God, knowing that our heavenly inheritance is far greater and more enduring than anything we could attain in this world. Let us rejoice in the hope we have in Christ and eagerly await the fullness of our heavenly inheritance.
2 Corinthians 5:1
“For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands.”
Paul assures believers that our current earthly existence is temporary and prepare us for the eternal dwelling that awaits us in heaven. This verse reminds us that our bodies, which are likened to tents, are subject to decay and destruction. However, we have the assurance of an eternal home in heaven, prepared by God Himself. This truth gives us hope and comfort, reminding us that our present struggles and physical limitations are temporary. As we fix our gaze on our eternal dwelling, we can find strength to persevere and live with an eternal perspective.
Proverbs 23:4-5
“Do not wear yourself out to get rich; do not trust your own cleverness. Cast but a glance at riches, and they are gone, for they will surely sprout wings and fly off to the sky like an eagle.”
This proverb warns against the futile pursuit of wealth and the danger of placing our trust in worldly cleverness. It reminds us of the fleeting and temporary nature of riches, which can disappear in an instant. Our focus should not be on accumulating great wealth, but on seeking God’s wisdom and trusting in His provision. True treasure is found in a life lived in devotion to God, not in the accumulation of material possessions that will eventually fade away. May we strive for godliness above all else, knowing that worldly wealth is transient and ultimately unsatisfying.
Psalm 49:16-17
“Do not be overawed when others grow rich, when the splendor of their houses increased; for they will take nothing with them when they die, their splendor will not descend with them.”
This psalm cautions against envy and the temptation to be impressed by the wealth and prosperity of others. It reminds us that material possessions have no eternal value and will ultimately be left behind when we pass from this life. Our attention should not be fixated on the temporal wealth of others, but rather on the pursuit of eternal treasures that are stored up in heaven. Let us develop contentment and gratitude for what God has given us, knowing that true worth lies in our relationship with Him and not in worldly possessions.
Psalm 37:16
“Better the little that the righteous have than the wealth of many wicked.”
This verse highlights the importance of prioritizing righteousness and godly character over worldly wealth. It emphasizes the significance of contentment and integrity, even if it means having less material abundance. The true value of a person’s life is not measured by their wealth or possessions, but by their relationship with God and their commitment to living in accordance with His principles. Let us be content with what we have, knowing that a righteous life is far more valuable and rewarding in the eyes of God than all the riches the world can offer.
Ecclesiastes 5:10
“Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless.”
In this verse, the writer of Ecclesiastes reflects on the futility of pursuing wealth and the insatiable desire it can create. The pursuit of money and material possessions can never bring true satisfaction or contentment. The more we focus on accumulating wealth, the more we become enslaved by it, always longing for more. This verse serves as a cautionary reminder that the pursuit of wealth is a never-ending cycle that will ultimately leave us empty and unsatisfied. Let us seek contentment and fulfillment in a relationship with God rather than in the accumulation of earthly riches.
Proverbs 3:13-15
“Blessed are those who find wisdom, those who gain understanding, for she is more profitable than silver and yields better returns than gold. She is more precious than rubies; nothing you desire can compare with her.”
These verses extol the value and superiority of wisdom compared to material wealth. The pursuit of wisdom and understanding is far more beneficial and rewarding than the acquisition of silver, gold, or precious gems. True wealth lies in the knowledge and application of God’s wisdom, which brings lasting fulfillment and eternal benefits. Let us prioritize the pursuit of wisdom, seeking it diligently and treasuring it above all earthly possessions. In doing so, we will find the true riches that can only be found in a relationship with God.
Luke 12:16-21
“And he told them this parable: ‘The ground of a certain rich man yielded an abundant harvest. He thought to himself, “What shall I do? I have no place to store my crops.” Then he said, “This is what I’ll do. I will tear down my barns and build bigger ones, and there I will store my surplus grain. And I’ll say to myself, “You have plenty of grain laid up for many years. Take life easy; eat, drink and be merry.’” But God said to him, ‘You fool! This very night your life will be demanded from you. Then who will get what you have prepared for yourself?’ This is how it will be with whoever stores up things for themselves but is not rich toward God.”
This parable emphasizes the foolishness of accumulating wealth for personal gain without considering one’s relationship with God. The rich man in this parable, although materially prepared for the future, neglects to prioritize his spiritual wellbeing and dies without enjoying the fruits of his labor or leaving any eternal impact. This serves as a cautionary tale that highlights the importance of being rich toward God by prioritizing discipleship, generosity, and devotion to Him above the pursuit of wealth. Let us not store up treasures solely for ourselves, but invest in the kingdom of God and be rich in love and obedience towards Him.
What Does the Bible Say About Treasure In Heaven?
In the Bible, Jesus teaches us about the concept of “treasure in heaven” in Matthew 6:19-21. He encourages us not to store up treasures on earth where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but to store up treasures in heaven instead.
This passage emphasizes the eternal value of investing in spiritual treasures rather than earthly possessions. It’s a reminder that our ultimate goals and pursuits should be centered on things of eternal significance, such as faith, love, serving others, and spreading the gospel. By doing so, we are building up treasures in heaven that can never be taken away from us.
Additionally, in the parable of the rich fool in Luke 12:16-21, Jesus warns against the pursuit of wealth and material possessions at the expense of our relationship with God. He teaches that our lives do not consist of the abundance of our possessions and that being rich toward God is of far greater importance than amassing earthly riches.
As Christians, our focus should be on living in a way that honors God and reflects His love and grace. We are called to prioritize the kingdom of God and seek after righteousness, knowing that our true and lasting treasure is found in our relationship with Him.
Therefore, the concept of “treasure in heaven” serves as a reminder to evaluate our priorities and invest in things that have eternal value, ultimately leading us to a deeper relationship with God and an eternal inheritance in His kingdom.