Investing in what lasts is a principle deeply rooted in biblical teachings, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing eternal values over temporal gains. This concept is woven throughout Scripture, urging believers to focus on spiritual wealth and the Kingdom of God rather than the fleeting riches of this world.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible consistently contrasts earthly wealth with heavenly treasures. In Matthew 6:19-21 , Jesus instructs, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." This passage highlights the transient nature of material possessions and the enduring value of spiritual investments.

Eternal Perspective

The Apostle Paul echoes this sentiment in 2 Corinthians 4:18 , stating, "So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen. For what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal." Paul encourages believers to maintain an eternal perspective, focusing on the unseen realities of God's Kingdom rather than the visible, temporary world.

Stewardship and Generosity

Investing in what lasts also involves wise stewardship and generosity. In 1 Timothy 6:17-19 , Paul advises, "Instruct those who are rich in this present age not to be conceited and not to put their hope in the uncertainty of wealth, but in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Instruct 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 that which is truly life." Here, the emphasis is on using earthly resources to perform good deeds and share with others, thereby securing a foundation for eternal life.

The Parable of the Rich Fool

Jesus' parable of the rich fool in Luke 12:16-21 serves as a cautionary tale about the folly of hoarding wealth without regard for one's spiritual state. The rich man, who plans to build larger barns to store his surplus grain, is called a fool by God, who demands his life that very night. Jesus concludes, "This is how it will be for anyone who stores up treasure for himself but is not rich toward God." The parable underscores the importance of being "rich toward God" by investing in spiritual matters.

The Role of Faith

Faith plays a crucial role in investing in what lasts. Hebrews 11:1 defines faith as "the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see." This assurance enables believers to trust in God's promises and invest in His eternal Kingdom, even when the rewards are not immediately visible.

Practical Application

Practically, investing in what lasts involves aligning one's life with God's purposes, engaging in acts of service, and cultivating a relationship with Him through prayer and study of the Scriptures. It also means prioritizing relationships, community, and the spread of the Gospel, as these have eternal significance.

Conclusion

The biblical call to invest in what lasts is a call to live with eternity in mind, valuing what God values and seeking first His Kingdom and righteousness. Through wise stewardship, generosity, and faith, believers are encouraged to lay up treasures in heaven, where they will endure forever.