In Matthew 6 What Are Some Practical Ways To Store Up Treasures In Heaven?
Understanding “Treasures in Heaven” in Matthew 6
In the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus offers profound teaching on priorities, values, and eternal perspective. One of the most compelling passages is found in Matthew 6, where Jesus contrasts earthly treasures with heavenly treasures:
Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon the earth, where moth and rust consume, and where thieves break through and steal: but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth consume, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: for where thy treasure is, there will thy heart be also. - Matthew 6:19-21 ASV
Jesus calls His followers to invest in what endures eternally, not what fades away. But what does it mean, in practical terms, to store up treasures in heaven? Let’s explore this question through Scripture and practical application.
1. Generosity and Compassionate Giving
One clear way to store up treasures in heaven is by using our resources to bless others. Jesus teaches later in Matthew about caring for those in need, and the New Testament consistently connects generosity with eternal reward:
But when thou doest alms, let not thy left hand know what thy right hand doeth: that thine alms may be in secret: and thy Father who seeth in secret shall recompense thee. - Matthew 6:3-4 ASV
Charge them that are rich in this present world, that they be not high-minded, nor have their hope set on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; that they do good, that they be rich in good works, that they be ready to distribute, willing to communicate; laying up in store for themselves a good foundation against the time to come, that they may lay hold on the life which is life indeed. - 1 Timothy 6:17-19 ASV
- Support missions and evangelism.
- Care for the poor, widows, and orphans.
- Practice hospitality and generosity in daily life.
2. Pursuing God’s Kingdom and Righteousness
Jesus urges believers to seek eternal priorities over material gain. The context of Matthew 6 centers on trust in God above worldly anxieties:
But seek ye first his kingdom, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. - Matthew 6:33 ASV
- Prioritize worship, prayer, and spiritual growth.
- Serve faithfully in the local church and community.
- Live out the gospel by reflecting Christ’s character.
3. Investing in People and Eternal Relationships
Eternal treasures are often linked to relationships—leading others to Christ, discipling believers, and loving as Christ loved us:
Go ye therefore, and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them into the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit: teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I commanded you: and lo, I am with you always, even unto the end of the world. - Matthew 28:19-20 ASV
- Share the gospel and disciple others.
- Encourage and build up fellow believers.
- Forgive, serve, and love as Christ does.
4. Living with an Eternal Perspective
Storing up treasures in heaven means living each day in light of eternity. Paul reminds us:
If then ye were raised together with Christ, seek the things that are above, where Christ is, seated on the right hand of God. Set your mind on the things that are above, not on the things that are upon the earth. - Colossians 3:1-2 ASV
- Make decisions based on what matters for eternity, not just for today.
- Endure trials with hope in eternal reward (James 1:12 ASV).
- Remember that nothing done for Christ is ever wasted (1 Corinthians 15:58 ASV).
Conclusion
Storing up treasures in heaven is not about earning salvation, which is by grace through faith in Christ alone (Ephesians 2:8-9 ASV). Instead, it’s about living each day in joyful obedience, investing in what matters to God, and reflecting the character of Christ to a watching world. As Jesus said, “where thy treasure is, there will thy heart be also.” Let us set our hearts on Him and His eternal kingdom.