Clarifying Your Priorities
Matthew 6:19-21

“Where's your treasure?”

A missionary was speaking at a church service.  He challenged his congregation abruptly: “I want your money, I want your children and I want your prayers, and I want them in that  order!” He clearly understood the thrust of Matthew 6.21.
It is our treasure that leads our loyalty.  If our wealth is committed, we become involved.  We often see churches sending out youth on short-term mission trips.  Parents who have committed to “spend” tend to “send” their young people.  When you have your money committed and your children involved, you'll keep them on the top of the prayer list, and you'll spend more time, effort and attention in helping them.

Reflection

The most sensitive nerve in a man's body is the one connected to his wallet!  Money is very important in a man's life.  He spends his entire life in work.  And aside from the experience gained, and hopefully some pride of accom­plishment, its chief benefit is a paycheck.
Because resources are so tied to our identity, as well as to our sense of well being, we can often fool ourselves.  If I had unlimited funds, what would I like to do?  If I had $5,000 and only one week to live, what would I do with it?

Accountability and Application

Have you ever discussed with your wife the subject of your giving to the Lord's work?  If not, you should do it soon.  Try involving your family in a special project for the Lord which would demand your resources and time.  Design it so that it involves not only giving, but praying and some “hands-on” action too.

Prayer:   Lord, I admit that money can grab me in a way that is hard to break.  I believe that all that I have is truly yours, but sometimes I act as though I am the owner and not the steward.  Please forgive my tight­fistedness.  Free me to become a vessel of your blessing to others.

Matthew 6:19-21 (NASB)

 [19]"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 
 [20]"But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; 
 [21]for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.