Treasures can take many forms, from material wealth to spiritual blessings. The Bible encourages us to focus on heavenly treasures rather than earthly ones. Join me as we explore what the Scriptures say about treasures and their significance in our lives.
Also Read: What Does The Bible Say About pride in marriage
What Does The Bible Say About treasures
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 to focus on eternal treasures rather than earthly possessions. Earthly treasures are temporary and can easily be lost or stolen, but treasures in heaven are permanent and secure. It challenges us to evaluate our priorities and invest in things that have eternal value.
Our hearts naturally gravitate towards whatever we treasure the most. If we invest in earthly treasures, our hearts will be tied to them. However, if we prioritize heavenly treasures, our hearts will be focused on God and His kingdom.
Proverbs 15:6
“In the house of the righteous is a great treasure, but in the revenue of the wicked is trouble.”
This verse highlights the value of righteousness and how it leads to blessing. The house of the righteous is not only filled with material blessings but also with spiritual treasures such as peace, joy, and the presence of God. In contrast, the wealth of the wicked brings trouble and emptiness.
It teaches us that true treasure is not just about material wealth but also about living a righteous life. The pursuit of righteousness leads to a rich and fulfilling life, while the pursuit of wickedness ultimately leads to trouble and dissatisfaction.
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 seek wisdom and understanding as if it were a valuable treasure. Just as people diligently search for silver or hidden treasure, we should earnestly pursue wisdom through studying God’s Word and seeking His guidance.
The promise is that by doing so, we will gain a deep understanding of the fear of the Lord and find true knowledge of God. The pursuit of wisdom is not in vain but leads to a deeper relationship with God and a life lived in alignment with His will.
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 emphasizes the dangers of placing our hope in wealth and reminds us to prioritize our hope in God. The uncertainty of earthly riches should not lead to arrogance but rather to a humble dependence on God’s provision.
Instead of hoarding wealth for ourselves, we are called to be generous and willing to share. By doing good, being rich in good deeds, and being generous, we lay up treasures for ourselves in heaven that will have an eternal impact. True life is found in the pursuit of godliness and the generous use of our resources for the benefit of others.
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.”
This verse reminds us to refocus our hearts and minds on heavenly things rather than being consumed by earthly desires. As believers who have been united with Christ in His resurrection, our perspective should be transformed.
Setting our hearts and minds on things above means prioritizing the will of God and seeking His kingdom. It involves aligning our desires and thoughts with spiritual values and eternal purposes, rather than being preoccupied with temporary worldly pursuits.
Ecclesiastes 5:10
“Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. This too is meaningless.”
This verse warns us of the futility of pursuing wealth and material possessions as a source of satisfaction. The love of money only leads to an insatiable desire for more, never bringing true contentment or fulfillment.
It reminds us that true treasure and fulfillment cannot be found in earthly riches but in a relationship with God and living in alignment with His purposes. Pursuing wealth as the ultimate goal in life ultimately leads to emptiness and meaninglessness.
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.”
Jesus encourages us to prioritize generosity and helping the less fortunate over accumulating possessions. By selling our possessions and giving to the poor, we store up treasures in heaven that are imperishable and secure from earthly destruction.
Our hearts naturally follow where our treasures are. When we invest in the kingdom of God and prioritize the needs of others, our hearts will be aligned with God’s heart and His purposes.
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 reveals the interaction between Jesus and the rich young ruler. Jesus challenges him to sell his possessions, give to the poor, and follow Him. The treasure in heaven that awaits the rich young ruler is conditional upon his willingness to let go of his earthly attachments and fully surrender to Jesus.
It teaches us the importance of detaching ourselves from the material possessions that can hinder our relationship with God. True perfection comes from prioritizing Christ above everything else and being willing to sacrificially give for the sake of the kingdom.
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.”
This verse highlights the value and worth of wisdom and understanding. It encourages us to prioritize seeking wisdom over acquiring material wealth. The wealth of wisdom and knowledge far surpasses the value of any earthly riches.
Wisdom helps us make wise decisions, navigate through life’s challenges, and live in a way that honors God. It is a treasure that enriches our lives and brings us closer to the heart of God.
Psalm 119:72
“The law from your mouth is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of silver and gold.”
This verse expresses the psalmist’s deep appreciation for the Word of God. They value God’s law and teachings more than vast amounts of material wealth. The wisdom and guidance found in God’s Word are considered a priceless treasure.
It reminds us to prioritize the study and intake of God’s Word in our lives. The knowledge and understanding gained from the Scriptures are more valuable than any earthly riches, as they lead us to a deeper relationship with God and a life of obedience to His commands.
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?”
This verse challenges our perspective on riches and highlights the richness of faith that can be found in those who are considered poor in the eyes of the world. True wealth is not measured by material possessions but by a deep and genuine faith in God.
It reminds us that our focus should be on cultivating a rich and vibrant relationship with God, regardless of our financial status. In His kingdom, those who love God and have faith in Him are the ones who will inherit the true treasures He has promised.
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 notion that wealth equates to true prosperity. It warns against faking wealth and material abundance, as such pretense ultimately leads to emptiness. On the other hand, there are those who may appear to be poor but possess spiritual riches that far exceed material wealth.
It reminds us that true treasure is not determined by outward appearances but by the state of our hearts and our relationship with God. The pursuit of genuine spiritual wealth should be our priority, as it brings lasting fulfillment and eternal rewards.
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.”
This verse provides a perspective on the temporary nature of earthly troubles and challenges. It encourages us to set our focus on the eternal glory that awaits us in Christ, which is far more significant than any temporary difficulties we may face.
It reminds us to not be discouraged by present hardships but to look beyond them and trust in the promises of God. By fixing our eyes on the unseen, eternal realities that are grounded in God’s truth, we gain strength and endurance to persevere through life’s trials.
Psalm 49:16-17
“Do not be overawed when others grow rich when the splendor of their houses increases; for they will take nothing with them when they die, their splendor will not descend with them.”
This verse serves as a reminder that material wealth and worldly success are ultimately temporary and transient. We should not be envious or impressed by the riches of others, as these possessions hold no eternal value.
It compels us to focus instead on spiritual riches and the treasures that we can lay up in heaven. The pursuit of material wealth can never satisfy the deepest longings of our souls, but investing in eternal treasures will have a lasting impact beyond this life.
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 verse expresses gratitude for the incredible hope and inheritance we have through Jesus Christ. Through His resurrection, we are born again into a living hope and are assured of an eternal inheritance that is imperishable and secure.
It assures us that the treasures we have in Christ and in heaven will never fade away or be lost. The hope of our inheritance should fill us with joy and gratitude as we live in the reality of God’s abundant provision and eternal promises.
Matthew 13:44
“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.”
This verse portrays the value and preciousness of the kingdom of heaven. Just as a man joyfully sacrifices everything to possess a hidden treasure, we are called to give up everything to pursue the kingdom of God.
It challenges us to examine our priorities and be willing to let go of anything that hinders our wholehearted pursuit of God and His kingdom. The joy that comes from discovering the treasure of God’s kingdom far outweighs any sacrifices we may have to make.
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 verse emphasizes the blessings that come to those who fear the Lord and delight in His commands. It assures us that the righteous will be blessed by God and that wealth and riches will be found in their households.
However, it is essential to understand that this verse does not promote a prosperity gospel. Instead, it highlights that true wealth is found in living a righteous life and placing our trust in God. The blessings of God cannot be measured solely by material possessions, but by a life lived in alignment with His will.
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 refers to Moses, who willingly suffered disgrace and rejection for the sake of Christ. He considered the eternal reward and the approval of God far more valuable than the earthly treasures he could have enjoyed as a prince in Egypt.
It challenges us to evaluate our perspective on riches and the willingness to endure hardship for the sake of Christ. When we fix our eyes on the eternal rewards and live with an eternal perspective, earthly treasures lose their grip on our hearts and minds.
Mark 10:21
“Jesus looked at him and loved him. ‘One thing you lack,’ he said. ‘Go, sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.’”
This verse recounts Jesus’ encounter with a rich young ruler who was searching for eternal life. Jesus challenges him to sell all his possessions, give to the poor, and follow Him, assuring him of heavenly treasure in exchange.
It reminds us that following Jesus involves wholehearted surrender and a willingness to let go of anything that holds us back. The pursuit of eternal treasures requires a detachment from the world and a complete devotion to Christ.
Romans 14:17
“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.”
This verse emphasizes the true nature of the kingdom of God. It is not solely focused on material possessions or worldly pleasures but is characterized by righteousness, peace, and joy found in the Holy Spirit.
It challenges us to reevaluate our priorities and seek after the things that truly matter in God’s kingdom. Rather than being consumed by the pursuit of worldly treasures, we are called to pursue a life of righteousness, experience the peace that surpasses understanding, and find joy in the presence of the Holy Spirit.
Matthew 6:33
“But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.”
This verse reminds us of the priority we should give to seeking God’s kingdom and His righteousness. When we make God’s purposes and righteousness our priority, He promises to provide for our needs and bless us abundantly.
It encourages us to trust in God’s faithfulness and rely on His provision rather than being consumed by worry and the pursuit of earthly treasures. Seeking God’s kingdom first means submitting every aspect of our lives to His lordship and trusting Him to fulfill our needs according to His perfect plan.
Jeremiah 9:23-24
“This is what the Lord says: ‘Let not the wise boast of their wisdom or the strong boast of their strength or the rich boast of their riches, but let the one who boasts boast about this: that they have the understanding to know me, that I am the Lord, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight,’ declares the Lord.”
This verse highlights the futility of boasting in human wisdom, strength, and riches. True boast should be in having an understanding and knowledge of the Lord and recognizing His attributes of kindness, justice, and righteousness.
It challenges us to find our worth and identity in our relationship with God rather than in our worldly achievements. The pursuit of knowledge and intimacy with God is a treasure that far outweighs any earthly accolades or possessions.
Psalm 37:4
“Take delight in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart.”
This verse encourages us to find our delight and joy in the Lord. When we prioritize our relationship with Him and seek to please Him, He promises to grant the desires of our hearts.
However, it is crucial to understand that our desires need to align with God’s will and be rooted in righteousness. Delighting in the Lord leads to a transformation of our desires, and our hearts become aligned with His purposes and plans.