The Bible speaks about treasure in both literal and spiritual terms, encouraging believers to store up treasures in heaven rather than focusing on earthly wealth. Let’s explore what scripture says about the true value of treasure and how to invest in eternal rewards rather than temporary gains.
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What Does The Bible Say About Treasure
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 highlights the importance of prioritizing eternal treasures over earthly possessions. It reminds us that material wealth is temporary and can be easily lost or destroyed. Instead, we should focus on accumulating treasures in heaven through acts of righteousness, love, and faithfulness, as these are the things that truly matter and have lasting value.
Our hearts tend to be set on what we value most. If we invest our time, energy, and resources in pursuing worldly possessions, our heart will be attached to them. However, when we prioritize heavenly treasures, our hearts will be aligned with God’s purposes, leading to greater joy and fulfillment.
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.”
This verse addresses the attitude and responsibility of those who possess material wealth. It warns against arrogance and the misplaced trust in riches, emphasizing the uncertainty of wealth. Instead, we are encouraged to place our hope in God, who is the ultimate provider of all our needs.
Furthermore, the passage instructs the wealthy to use their resources for good, to be generous and willing to share. By doing so, they can store up heavenly treasures and build a solid foundation for the future. True life and fulfillment are found not in the accumulation of material wealth, but in a life dedicated to serving and blessing others.
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.'”
This verse follows Jesus’ encounter with a rich young man who asked what he must do to have eternal life. Jesus challenged him to give up his possessions and give to the poor, highlighting the importance of selflessness and generosity as a means to attain heavenly treasures.
While this command to sell all possessions may not apply to everyone, it emphasizes the need to prioritize God and the needs of others over worldly possessions. It prompts us to evaluate our attachment to material things and to let go of anything that hinders our relationship with God. In doing so, we can experience the true riches and fulfillment found in following Jesus.
Proverbs 2:1-5
“My son, if you accept my words and store up my commands within you, turning your ear to wisdom and applying your heart to understanding— indeed, if you call out for insight and cry aloud for understanding, and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as for hidden treasure, then you will understand the fear of the LORD and find the knowledge of God.”
This verse encourages us to diligently seek after wisdom and understanding, comparing it to the pursuit of valuable treasures. It instructs us to listen attentively to God’s words, internalize His commands, and actively seek insight and understanding.
By valuing wisdom and knowledge as highly as precious treasures, we open ourselves up to a deeper understanding of who God is and how we should live. The fear of the Lord and the knowledge of God are invaluable treasures that shape our character and guide our path.
Luke 12:34
“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.”
Similar to Matthew 6:21, this verse reminds us that our hearts are closely connected to what we treasure. It serves as a reminder to examine our priorities and ask ourselves where our true treasures lie.
Whether we are pursuing earthly possessions, recognition, or the approval of others, our hearts will be captivated by those pursuits. However, when we prioritize seeking God, storing up heavenly treasures, and placing our ultimate allegiance in Him, our heart will be firmly anchored in His love and purposes.
2 Corinthians 4:7
“But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.”
This verse reminds us that as believers, we carry a unique treasure within our fragile human bodies. The treasure referred to here is the light of the gospel, the knowledge of the glory of God in the face of Jesus Christ.
God’s power and grace are showcased through our weak, imperfect vessels. It is a reminder that our ultimate worth and significance come from God’s presence within us rather than our own accomplishments or external appearances.
Proverbs 15:6
“The house of the righteous contains great treasure, but the income of the wicked brings ruin.”
This verse contrasts the outcomes of righteous living and wickedness. The house of the righteous is depicted as a place of abundant treasure, which can be understood both spiritually and materially.
Righteousness brings blessings and favor from God, leading to true wealth in various aspects of life. On the other hand, the income accumulated through wickedness ultimately leads to ruin and emptiness, devoid of lasting value.
Psalm 119:162
“I rejoice in your promise like one who finds great spoil.”
This verse expresses the psalmist’s delight in God’s promises, comparing it to the joy of discovering great spoils after a military victory.
When we fully grasp the magnitude of God’s promises and their impact on our lives, we can experience a profound sense of joy and gratitude. The promises of God are like treasures waiting to be uncovered, bringing hope and fulfillment to those who trust in Him.
Proverbs 8:10-11
“Choose my instruction instead of silver, knowledge rather than choice gold, for wisdom is more precious than rubies, and nothing you desire can compare with her.”
Here, wisdom is extolled as a treasure of immeasurable worth, surpassing the value of silver, gold, and precious gems.
While material wealth can bring temporary satisfaction, true wisdom provides enduring benefits and guidance in every area of life. It encourages us to prioritize seeking God’s wisdom and understanding above earthly treasures, recognizing that nothing can compare to the priceless treasures found in a life rooted in God’s wisdom.
Colossians 2:2-3
“My goal is that they may be encouraged in heart and united in love, so that they may have the full riches of complete understanding, in order that they may know the mystery of God, namely, Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.”
The apostle Paul expresses his desire for believers to experience the full riches of complete understanding, which is found in Christ. In Him, all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge are hidden.
When we have a deep relationship with Christ, we gain access to the abundant treasures of divine wisdom and knowledge. It is through knowing Him that we discover the true meaning and purpose of life.
Romans 9:23
“What if he did this to make the riches of his glory known to the objects of his mercy, whom he prepared in advance for glory?”
This verse speaks of God’s purpose in showing the riches of His glory to those who are recipients of His mercy. It reveals that God has prepared us in advance for glory, where we can experience the fullness of His rich blessings.
Through His abundant mercy, God invites us to partake in His glory and experience the vast richness of His grace. We are called to embrace this invitation and recognize the immeasurable treasures that await us in His presence.
Psalm 105:19
“Until the time came to fulfill his dreams, the LORD tested Joseph’s character.”
In the story of Joseph, we see how God tested his character and faithfulness throughout various trials before ultimately exalting him.
Joseph’s story teaches us that even in times of adversity and delay, God is at work, shaping and refining us for His purposes. The process of testing can be viewed as a hidden treasure, molding us into vessels that can be used mightily by God for His glory.
Job 22:21
“Submit to God and be at peace with him; in this way prosperity will come to you.”
This verse emphasizes the importance of surrendering to God’s will and finding peace in Him. When we submit our lives to God and align our desires with His, we can experience the peace and prosperity that comes from walking in His ways.
True prosperity is not merely measured by material wealth, but by the abundance of God’s presence, joy, and blessings that flow from a relationship with Him.
Psalm 112:1-3
“Praise the LORD. Blessed are those who fear the LORD, who find great delight in his commands. Their children will be mighty in the land; the generation of the upright will be blessed. Wealth and riches are in their houses, and their righteousness endures forever.”
This psalm emphasizes the blessings that come to those who fear the Lord and delight in His commands.
Beyond material wealth, these blessings encompass flourishing families, generational blessings, and enduring righteousness. The true treasure lies in a life that honors God and follows His ways, resulting in blessings that transcend monetary value.
Proverbs 21:20
“The wise store up choice food and olive oil, but fools gulp theirs down.”
This verse provides practical wisdom, highlighting the value of wise planning and preparation for the future.
Those who are wise and prudent understand the importance of storing up resources for times of need, demonstrating foresight and responsible stewardship. Conversely, those who act impulsively and consume everything immediately are depicted as fools, failing to consider the future implications of their choices.
Proverbs 10:22
“The blessing of the LORD brings wealth, without painful toil for it.”
This verse reveals that true wealth and prosperity come as a result of God’s blessings.
When we walk in obedience to God’s commands and align ourselves with His will, we position ourselves to receive His abundant blessings. This does not mean that we avoid hard work or challenges, but rather that God’s favor and provision extend beyond what our own efforts can achieve.
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 reminds us of God’s counter-cultural perspective on wealth. Those who are considered economically poor by worldly standards can possess great spiritual wealth and be heirs of the heavenly kingdom.
God’s values differ from the world’s, teaching us that true wealth is found in faith, obedience, love for God, and the inheritance of His eternal promises.
Proverbs 13:7
“One person pretends to be rich, yet has nothing; another pretends to be poor, yet has great wealth.”
This verse challenges the common assumption that material possessions define one’s wealth.
It highlights the contrast between those who may appear outwardly prosperous but lack true wealth, and those who may seem poor but possess great riches—perhaps in the form of wisdom, character, or spiritual treasures.
Ecclesiastes 5:19
“Moreover, when God gives someone wealth and possessions, and the ability to enjoy them, to accept their lot and be happy in their toil—this is a gift of God.”
This verse acknowledges that wealth and the ability to enjoy it are gifts from God.
It encourages contentment and gratitude for the blessings we have been entrusted with, reminding us to find joy in our work and the provision that comes from God’s hand.
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 verse cautions against the pitfalls of being consumed by the pursuit of wealth and relying solely on one’s own abilities.
It advises against placing undue emphasis on material riches, as they are transient and can disappear suddenly. Instead, we are encouraged to pursue godly wisdom, recognizing that true security and lasting treasures are found in a relationship with God rather than in worldly possessions.
Proverbs 8:18-19
“With me are riches and honor, enduring wealth and prosperity. My fruit is better than fine gold; what I yield surpasses choice silver.”
In this verse, wisdom personified speaks, declaring the surpassing value of the treasures she offers.
Wisdom’s riches go beyond material wealth, encompassing honor, enduring prosperity, and a fruitful life. The treasures of wisdom far outshine the temporary allure of gold or silver, pointing us to true fulfillment found in a life of wisdom and understanding.
Proverbs 27:24
“For riches do not endure forever, and a crown is not secure for all generations.”
This verse serves as a reminder of the fleeting nature of material wealth and worldly achievements.
In the grand scheme of eternity, riches and accolades cannot provide lasting security. It is essential to place our hope and trust not in earthly treasures, but in God’s unchanging nature and eternal promises.
Proverbs 15:16
“Better a little with the fear of the LORD than great wealth with turmoil.”
This verse emphasizes the value of having a heart that fears the Lord, even if accompanied by modest material possessions.
While wealth can bring temporary comfort and security, it is far better to possess a reverential awe of God and a life marked by peace, contentment, and godly character.