Investing in Eternity: Storing Up Treasure That Lasts

Written By Brian Jones

Money talks. It tells us what to earn, save, spend, and invest in. But what if we’re investing in the wrong things? Jesus gives a clear directive in Matthew 6:19-21: “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth…but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” If money could talk, it would remind us that everything we invest in on Earth is temporary. But Jesus invites us to invest in something far greater—His Kingdom—where the return is eternal. Click on the message link above for the full message.

Where Are You Investing?

Many people put their faith in financial investments, hoping to build wealth for the future. But no matter how much we accumulate, money is fleeting. Banks fail, economies crash, and even the best financial planning has its risks. Jesus warns that everything on Earth is subject to moths, rust, and thieves—symbolizing decay, loss, and instability. But heavenly investments are secure.

Earthly Investments vs. Eternal Investments

  • Earthly investments fade, break, or disappear. Ex: Cars, houses, experiences, concerts, clothes, etc.

  • Eternal investments last forever and yield unimaginable rewards. Ex: Worship, Evangelism, Serving others, engaging in the church community, missions. etc.

What Is Treasure in Heaven?

Jesus tells us to store up treasure in heaven—but what does that look like? Scripture points to three primary forms of eternal wealth:

1. God Himself – The Greatest Treasure

The most valuable treasure we can have is a relationship with God. In eternity, the reward isn’t just a place—it’s a person. Heaven’s ultimate gift is dwelling with our Creator in perfect unity.

2. The Kingdom of God – A New Heaven and New Earth

Jesus promises that believers will inherit His Kingdom (1 Peter 1:4). Unlike the fleeting world we live in, God’s Kingdom will never decay. Investing in His mission means participating in something that will last beyond our lifetime.

3. Rewards for Faithfulness

Scripture teaches that how we live now affects eternity. While we are saved by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9), God rewards faithful living (2 Corinthians 5:10). Every act of generosity, obedience, and sacrifice contributes to our eternal inheritance.

How to Invest in Eternal Treasure

1. Identify Where Your Heart Is

“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” (Matthew 6:21)

What we invest in reveals what we love. If we spend all our energy on money, success, or material wealth, it’s a sign of where our heart truly lies. But when we invest in God’s Kingdom, our hearts follow.

Reflection Questions:

  • What do you spend the most time thinking about?

  • What do your financial choices say about your priorities?

  • Do you see your money as a tool for God’s Kingdom?

2. Make Kingdom Investments

Jesus challenges us to use worldly wealth for eternal purposes (Luke 16:9). This doesn’t mean we neglect financial wisdom—it means we align our resources with our faith.

Practical Ways to Invest in God’s Kingdom:

  • Give generously to missions, churches, and those in need.

  • Use money as a tool to build relationships and spread the gospel.

  • Support ministries that transform lives for Christ.

  • Be open-handed with what God has given you.

When we invest in eternity, we aren’t losing—we’re trading temporary things for something far greater.

3. Serve God, Not Money

“No one can serve two masters. You cannot serve both God and money.” (Matthew 6:24)

Money isn’t evil, but it makes a terrible master. Jesus makes it clear: we must choose who we serve.

Who is in control—God or money?

  • If we prioritize wealth over faith, money owns us.

  • If we submit our finances to God, money becomes a tool for His glory.

A Real-Life Example of Investing in Eternity

A business owner, Brian, once had a choice: use his wealth for personal gain or invest in God’s mission. He chose to fund a ministry, trusting that eternal rewards were greater than earthly wealth. What happened? His business grew 700%—a testament to God’s faithfulness. But more importantly, his investment helped lead people to Christ. This is the power of investing in the Kingdom of God.

Final Challenge: Where Will You Store Your Treasure?

  • Are you focused on temporary wealth or eternal rewards?

  • Do you see your money as yours or as a resource from God?

  • Are you using what you have to advance God’s Kingdom?

God invites us to shift our focus from what fades to what lasts. Will you invest in eternity today?

Further Reading

Other Links

Brian Jones
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