Discover what it means to invest in the kingdom of God and learn how you can use your faith-filled financial resources to make an eternal impact.
Scripture: Matthew 6:19-21 (NIV)
19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."
If you consult any financial advisor about where to invest your savings, four considerations will influence their guidance -- risk, return, personal circumstances, and taxes. The goal of financial planning is to maximize financial return. We can define investment as the act of engaging in activities that are expected to yield results; even much more than what is invested. For every investment, there is an expected reward or profit.
What is our role as “faith driven” investors? Should we think about the issue of financial return differently than those who are not faith motivated? Our scripture is clear that we should be less concerned about storing worldly possessions but to store up our treasures in heaven because where we store our treasures is where our heart will be also. Therefore, we should live a life invested in living for God which will give us an investment in eternity that will last forever.
In today's world, we are often encouraged to invest our time, energy, and resources into things that promise us a secure future or immediate gratification. However, Jesus teaches us a different way of living - one that focuses on investing in God and His kingdom.
In this article, we will cover three main points: why we should invest in God, the benefits of investing in God, and how do we invest in the Kingdom of God.
1. Why Would You Invest in God?
Priorities: As believers, our priority should be to seek first the kingdom of God (Matthew 6:33). By investing in God, we show that our relationship with Him is more important than anything else. This includes making choices that align with God's will even when they conflict with our personal desires.
Security: Our earthly investments can be lost, stolen, or destroyed. However, when we invest in God, our treasures are stored in heaven, where they are safe and secure (Matthew 6:20).
Eternal Life: Investing in God helps us maintain an eternal perspective, reminding us that our time on earth is temporary, and our true citizenship is going to be in heaven with our Lord and Savior.
Transformation: When we invest in God, our lives are transformed by the renewing of our minds (Romans 12:2). As we draw closer to Him, our thoughts, attitudes, and actions begin to reflect His character, and we become more effective witnesses for Christ. The transformation of Saul to Paul (Acts 9:1-19) is a powerful example of how investing in God can change a person's life completely.
Purpose and Direction: Investing in God helps us discover our God-given purpose and direction in life. As we commit our plans to Him, He guides our steps and leads us on the path He has prepared for us (Proverbs 3:5-6).
Peace: Investing in God brings a sense of inner peace that surpasses all understanding (Philippians 4:7). In the midst of life's storms and uncertainties, trusting in God and His promises gives us the assurance that He is in control and will see us through every situation.
2. What Are the Benefits of Investing in God?
Spiritual growth: As we invest in God, we grow spiritually, becoming more like Christ (Ephesians 4:15). This growth is evident as we develop the fruit of the Spirit in our lives (Galatians 5:22-23).
Joy: When we invest in God, we find true joy and contentment, as our hearts are aligned with His purposes (Psalm 37:4). Paul's life exemplifies this as he learned to be content in any situation (Philippians 4:11-13).
Eternal rewards: Jesus promises that those who invest in the Kingdom of God will receive treasures in heaven (Matthew 6:20). These rewards may not be material, but they will be of eternal value (1 Corinthians 3:12-14).
Stronger Relationships: When we invest in God, our relationships with others are positively impacted as well. As we grow in love, forgiveness, and compassion – modeled after Christ's love for us – our connections with family, friends, and other believers deepen and become more meaningful (Ephesians 4:2-3).
Divine Provision: Investing in God brings about the assurance that He will provide for our needs according to His riches in glory (Philippians 4:19). As we trust in Him and prioritize His kingdom, we can have faith that He will take care of our physical, emotional, and spiritual needs.
3. How Do You Invest in the Kingdom of God?
Prayer and worship: By spending time in prayer and worship, we prioritize our relationship with God and invest in our spiritual growth (Psalm 63:1-4). Examples from the Bible include Daniel's commitment to prayer (Daniel 6:10) and David's heart for worship (Psalm 27:4).
Bible study: Regularly studying the Bible helps us grow in our knowledge and understanding of God, allowing us to invest in our relationship with Him (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
Serving others: Jesus taught that serving others is like serving Him (Matthew 25:40). By using our gifts and resources to serve others, we invest in God's kingdom and store up treasures in heaven. The Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) illustrates the importance of serving others with compassion and selflessness.
Generosity: Giving our time, talents, and finances to support the work of God's kingdom is a way to invest in God (2 Corinthians 9:6-7). This includes supporting our church, missions, and other ministries.
In Summary
Investing in God is not always easy, but it is essential for our spiritual growth. As we prioritize our relationship with God, investing in His kingdom, and trusting Him with our resources, we will experience the joy and contentment that comes from storing up treasures in heaven. Let us challenge ourselves to live with an eternal perspective, seeking first the kingdom of God and investing in what truly matters.