In the Christian faith, prioritizing the eternal over the temporal is a fundamental principle that guides believers in their daily lives and spiritual journeys. This concept is deeply rooted in Scripture and is reflected in the teachings of Jesus Christ and the apostles. It emphasizes the importance of focusing on eternal values and the kingdom of God rather than being consumed by the fleeting concerns of the world.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible consistently encourages believers to set their minds on things above, rather than on earthly matters. In Colossians 3:2, the apostle Paul exhorts, "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." This directive underscores the importance of aligning one's thoughts and priorities with the eternal purposes of God.

Jesus Himself addressed the issue of prioritizing the eternal in the Sermon on the Mount. In Matthew 6:19-21, He 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 earthly possessions and the enduring value of heavenly treasures.

The Kingdom of God

Central to the concept of prioritizing the eternal is the pursuit of the Kingdom of God. Jesus emphasizes this in Matthew 6:33, saying, "But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you." Here, the call is to place God's kingdom and His righteousness above all else, trusting that God will provide for the believer's needs.

The Kingdom of God represents the reign and rule of God in the hearts of believers and ultimately in the world. Prioritizing the eternal involves seeking to advance this kingdom through righteous living, evangelism, and service to others.

Eternal Perspective

An eternal perspective shapes how believers view their lives and circumstances. The apostle Paul, in 2 Corinthians 4:17-18, writes, "For our light and momentary affliction is producing for us an eternal glory that is far beyond comparison. 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." This passage encourages believers to endure trials with the understanding that they contribute to an eternal glory that far outweighs present difficulties.

Living for Eternity

Living with an eternal focus involves making choices that reflect eternal values. This includes investing time and resources in activities that have lasting significance, such as worship, prayer, studying Scripture, and serving others. It also means cultivating virtues like love, faith, and hope, which have eternal significance.

The apostle John, in 1 John 2:15-17, warns against loving the world and its desires, stating, "The world and its desires pass away, but whoever does the will of God lives forever." This passage serves as a reminder that the pursuits of the world are temporary, while doing God's will has eternal implications.

Conclusion

While the Bible does not dismiss the importance of addressing earthly needs and responsibilities, it calls believers to maintain a focus on the eternal. By prioritizing the eternal, Christians are encouraged to live lives that reflect the values of God's kingdom, trusting in His promises and looking forward to the eternal inheritance that awaits them.