By: Juliet Constantine
But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. (Matt 6:20-21)
“In ancient times it was customary for men to hide their treasures in the earth. Thefts and robberies were frequent. And whenever there was a change in the ruling power, those who had large possessions were liable to be put under heavy tribute. Moreover the country was in constant danger of invasion by marauding armies. As a consequence, the rich endeavored to preserve their wealth by concealing it, and the earth was looked upon as a safe hiding place. But often the place of concealment was forgotten; death might claim the owner, imprisonment or exile might separate him from his treasure, and the wealth he had taken such pains to preserve was left for the fortunate finder. In Christ's day it was not uncommon to discover in neglected land old coins and ornaments of gold and silver” (Hidden Treasurers by EGW).
It was due to this custom that the dying rich farmer advised his lazy sons that their ‘inheritance’ was buried in his orchards of oranges. After digging up those massive orchards, the sons realized they were tricked as their inheritance was in the bountiful yield from the revived orchards.
As I reflected on this passage I wondered what treasures I have and where were they being stored. The physical things were easily identifiable. These could be corrupted or stolen. But, what heavenly treasures that would remain could I acquire? The answer can only be found in the ‘field’ of God’s words.
“The Bible is a field where are concealed heavenly treasures, and they will remain hidden treasures until, by diligent mining, they are discovered and brought to light. The Bible is a casket containing jewels of inestimable value, which should be so presented as to be seen in their intrinsic luster. But the beauty and excellence of these diamonds of truth are not discerned by the natural eye. The lovely things of the material world are not seen until the sun, dispelling the darkness, floods them with its light. And so with the treasures of God’s word; they are not appreciated until they are revealed by the Sun of Righteousness.” (CPTS pg421).
We can conclude that as we dig, and continue to dig a little deeper in the storehouse of God’s words, heavenly treasures will be unfolded that we will hold dearly. In faith we will respond to our God of love in total obedience as we allow His words to cleanse and sanctify us. We will then walk and talk the way Christians should.
Ellen White says is beautifully: “The covetous man becomes more covetous as he draws near his death. The man who all through his life is accumulating earthly treasure, cannot readily withdraw himself from his accustomed pursuits. Shall not he who is seeking a heavenly treasure become more earnest, more zealous, and more intensely interested in seeking the treasure which is above? … Shall he not seek the crown of glory that is imperishable, the riches which moth and rust doth not corrupt, or thieves break through and steal? The more ardent his hopes, the more strenuous are his efforts and the more determined he is not to fail of the immortal treasure.... His business on the earth is to secure eternal riches. He cannot, will not, consent, after tasting of the heavenly gifts of God, to be a pauper, left in destitution for eternity. The soul passion is more, more. This is the real want of the soul. We want more of the divine grace, more enlightenment, more faith.... (OHC pg188).
Dear Father, thank You for showing us how to acquire, and store heavenly treasures. Please help us to dig deeper in Your words which are able to make us wise unto salvation. Help us to hide Your words in our hearts so that we will not sin against You. In Jesus’ name we pray, amen.
Copyrighted by Juliet Constantine 2014 (for “Alone With God – Finding Jesus In The Scriptures” Daily Devotional)
