The Money Grid: Earth vs Eternity

We live in a world not only fixated on comfort but also on earth. We want instant gratification. We want all the pleasure now. Many feel this life is all there is, so go big while you still have time. Make a name for yourself, be successful, upgrade your lifestyle, upgrade your holidays, upgrade your wardrobe, upgrade your vehicles. Upgrade, Upgrade, Upgrade! And do it now, while you still have time!

The Bible tells us that our lives on earth are a mist, a vapor. Compared to all eternity, our time on earth is very, very short. And so, the Bible says our focus shouldn’t be on earthly things, but on what will last forever. If we truly believe that life beyond the grave is forever, it makes logical sense that eternity is our priority.

But that isn’t all, God tells us that we have the opportunity to invest our resources on earth: our time, our money, and our possessions for a reward - for treasures in Heaven that continue forever. How incredible is that? Nothing that we do or invest for Jesus on earth is wasted. No amount of moth or rust can destroy our eternal rewards.

What holds us back from fixing our eyes on eternity?

What are some reasons we struggle to live with an eternal perspective?

1. We don’t believe Heaven is as good as Jesus says it will be.
2. We love our lives on Earth a little bit too much.
3. We believe that money and resources are what ultimately keep us safe and secure.
4. There is a status that comes from having and demonstrating wealth that is difficult to give up.

I am not sure which may apply to you most, but I want to encourage you to think about eternity. Think about what lies beyond the grave. Think about a world with no pain, no suffering, no evil. Allow that to alter and adjust how you think about life on Earth. When we have the proper perspective between life on earth and all eternity it will help us to also see our resources in their proper perspective.

That is what I call the Money Grid. If we can see our money and possessions through those 4 lenses, we will be able to live wisely, joyously, purposely, generously, and eternally! So, give it a test run this week. Maybe God is going to challenge you to do some radical things with what you have, maybe even right now! Don’t overthink it, just listen to what He says and go for it! It will be the best decision you can make!

In conclusion, here is a great quote from Chuck Swindoll:

Money can buy medicine, but not health.
Money can buy a house, but not a home.
Money can buy companionship, but not friends.
Money can buy entertainment, but not happiness.
Money can buy food, but not an appetite.
Money can buy a bed, but not sleep.
Money can buy a crucifix, but not a Savior.
Money can buy the good life, but not eternal life.

Scripture:

2 Corinthians 4:18 - 18 So we fix our eyes not on what is seen, but on what is unseen, since what is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.

Matthew 6:19-21 - 19 “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal, 20 but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.

Reflection:

In our society, there is a constant drive towards instant gratification and earthly success. The pursuit of upgrading our lifestyle, possessions, and status often takes center stage. We are bombarded with the message that the more we acquire now, the better our lives will be. However, the Bible presents a starkly different perspective.

• How much of your time and resources are currently devoted to acquiring and enjoying earthly comforts? Are these efforts overshadowing your focus on eternal values?
• In what ways does the pursuit of immediate pleasure or status conflict with the teachings of Matthew 6:19-21? How can you shift your priorities to align more closely with the eternal perspective Jesus describes?
• Consider the brevity of life described in the Bible. How does the understanding that our earthly existence is temporary influence your view on investments, possessions, and lifestyle choices?
• What are some specific areas in your life where you might be prioritizing earthly gains over eternal rewards? How can you begin to adjust your focus to invest in things that have lasting value?
• How do you view the concept of storing up treasures in heaven? What practical steps can you take to ensure that your resources are being used to build God's Kingdom rather than merely enhancing your earthly comfort?

Application:

1. Re-evaluate Your Investments: Take stock of how your financial and personal resources are being used. Are they primarily serving your immediate comfort, or are they contributing to eternal purposes?
2. Set Eternal Goals: Identify ways you can redirect your resources towards activities that have eternal significance, such as supporting missions, engaging in charitable work, or investing in relationships that promote spiritual growth.
3. Practice Generosity: Look for opportunities to give generously to causes that advance God's Kingdom. Let your giving reflect your belief in the eternal rewards described in Scripture.
4. Cultivate an Eternal Mindset: Regularly remind yourself of the temporary nature of earthly things. Engage in practices that keep your focus on eternity, such as prayer, meditation on Scripture, and discussions about the eternal impact of your decisions.

Prayer:

Dear Heavenly Father,

Thank You for the eternal perspective You offer us through Your Word. Help me to shift my focus from the fleeting comforts of this world to the everlasting treasures of Your Kingdom. Open my eyes to see the temporary nature of earthly possessions and the enduring value of investing in Your work. Guide me in using my resources to reflect Your love and purpose and grant me the wisdom to prioritize what truly matters in light of eternity. Transform my heart to value eternal rewards above temporary gains.

In Jesus’ name, Amen.