What lifestyle decisions might be made by one who
is laying up treasure in heaven (Matthew 6:19–21)?
Both our major and minor choices must be signifi-
cantly influenced by this principle from our Lord
about living for eternity. This includes how we use
our time, accumulate and spend our resources, and
use our talents and strength. If our heart’s desire
is to honor Christ and pursue the eternal, then we
must be willing to take practical steps to store up
heavenly treasure. Here are some ideas.
Choose a Home That
Will Facilitate Ministry
Why did you choose the home where you live?
There are many factors to consider: affordability,
neighborhood, safety, convenience, school choices,
local government policies, taxes, etc. These are good
and natural concerns.
A follower of Jesus Christ whose highest motiva-
tion in life is serving Christ doesn’t stop with these
considerations. His or her mind is thinking of gospel
ministry: Where is the light of the Gospel most
needed? Where can my home and family be most
useful for ministry? Is there a struggling local
church where my family can plug in and serve? I
know a family who chose to live in an inner-city
area for the sole purpose of assisting a small
church plant in a difficult situation. It was
a sacrifice for them to do this, but it was
their joy to meet a real need for the Gospel.
Wages were lower, costs were higher, and
housing was less convenient—yet they went.
For some Christians, it may be the choice to
live in a progressively socialist state or city. While
others flee en masse, these folks choose to stay to
strengthen churches and provide a witness in the
increasing darkness.
PRACTICAL IDEAS
FOR LAYING UP HEAVENLY TREASURE