Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also (Matt. 6:19-21).

It’s almost a human reflex to think that greater obedience to God guarantees that we will have a problem-free family, material comforts, and a successful career. But that’s clearly not the case for many persecuted or impoverished believers throughout history or across our present world.

Our reflex mistake is trying to assess God’s faithfulness by earthly measures rather than eternal blessings. Not all Christians will have what the world most treasures, because worldly things are not what God most treasures.

The blessings of living for Christ will always include being able to look in the mirror without shame, having spiritual peace in a troubled world, and absolute confidence that God is working all things for the eternal good of those who love him. 

Righteousness, peace, and eternal joy are the blessings God grants his people that the world cannot grant nor take away. Be encouraged today – even if it’s a tough day – knowing that you can always trust in the perfect plan and gracious provision of your eternal God!

Prayer:
Lord, please help me not to assess your faithfulness by earthly measures. Rather teach me the certainty, beauty, and eternity of your spiritual blessings that the world can neither give nor take away.