Materialism will enslave the heart, the mind, and the will. We can become shackled by the material things of life, but we ought to be liberated and controlled by the Spirit of God.
If the heart loves material things and puts earthly gain above heavenly investments, the result can only be a tragic loss.

The treasures of earth may be used for God. But if we gather material things for ourselves, we will lose them; and we will lose our hearts with them. Instead of spiritual enrichment, we will experience impoverishment.

What does it mean to lay up treasures in heaven? It means to use all we have for the glory of God. It means to “hang loose” when it comes to the material things of life. It also means measuring life by the true riches of the kingdom and not by the false riches of this world.

Today’s Scripture: “Do not wear yourself out to get rich; have the wisdom to show restraint. 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” (Proverbs 23:4-5, NIV).

Also read: Matthew 6:19-24; 19:16-24; 1 Timothy 6:6-11; Luke 9:25.

Action assignment: Are you enslaved to a material thing? Sub¬stitute in its place a “treasure in heaven.” Do something of eternal value today. Ask God to direct you.

WARREN W. WIERSBE
www.backtothebible.in