Before diving into today’s reading, go to page 64 of your Awaken Guidebook and take a few minutes to complete the “Look Ahead” section.
Read Matthew 6:19-21 in your personal Bible or at the link provided.
Review
- What happens to treasures here on earth?
- What happens to treasures that are stored in heaven?
- What determines the desires of our hearts?
Reflect
In His famous Sermon on the Mount, Jesus challenged people in many areas, including what we value. He made it clear that earthly treasures won’t last, but treasures in heaven can never be damaged or stolen. He then said that our treasures don’t follow our hearts; our hearts actually follow our treasures. The original Greek word for “heart” can also mean the core of our being, encompassing our will, emotions, and passion. In other words, wherever we want these to be, we should send our treasure there.
In a culture that glorifies amassing stuff, it can be easy to put all our energy into storing up earthly things, to find our identity or security in them. God isn’t against us having identity or feeling secure unless those pursuits become ultimate and push Him out as the One providing them.
However much or little “stuff” you have on this earth, you’ve been given a choice – a choice to invest your time, talent, and treasure in things that will ultimately fade away, or to invest in things that matter for eternity. You can’t take any of your earthly stuff with you. Wherever you want your heart to be, send your treasure there.
Respond
- When it comes to earthly treasure, what would you say are the most important treasures in your life? How much time or money do you find yourself investing in them or thinking about them?
- What are some ways God has been challenging you to invest in things that last for eternity? What might a next step look like?
- When you think about your “heart” meaning the core of your being, encompassing your will, emotions, and passion, how does that hit you? Where do you most want your heart to be focused? Will your current activities and treasures lead you there?
As you process these questions, use page 65 of your Awaken Guidebook to jot down any key reflections or next steps. Be sure to bring your guidebook to your group! Page 66 is a great place to write down things that you want to process together.