Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. Matthew 6:19-21 NLT
I remember the teachers beginning to talk to us in early high school about the SAT and ACT examinations that “would be upon us before we knew it.” They drilled into us the importance of consistent preparation and handling of our daily and weekly learning goals. These exams measure a student's readiness for college by assessing their skills in English, math, reading, and science. We were warned that if we did not do well enough, college entrance and perhaps our future plans would be hindered.
We have all learned that testing is vital in all of life. A test will reveal important information that is not immediately obvious with a casual look. The Bible records several reminders that God uses our finances as a test. Jesus said, “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much, and whoever is dishonest with very little will also be dishonest with much” (Luke 16:10 NIV). Yes, God observes how we handle our finances and uses it as a test. It’s not simply dishonesty, as in lying or cheating, that causes us to fail, however. God is looking for the way our financial decisions answer several questions:
What do I love most? One of the first lessons I remember from being discipled as a young person was this: “If you really want to know what’s most important to you, look at your calendar and your checkbook.” Today we’d have to look at whatever method we have for budgeting and recording expenses, our credit card statements, and our schedules. But the truth is the same. Our money and time go to what and who we love the most.
What and who do I trust most? Where do I go for security, for happiness, for self-worth? If it is in my money, my investments, my possessions, or what they can do for me, I’m telling God who/what my ultimate source is. If the economy drives me to worry and insecurity, how does God see my test score?
Can God trust me to manage His resources? Jesus goes on to say, “So if you have not been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?” (Luke 16:11 NIV). Worldly riches are just for here and now. As we hear but often don’t seem to take to heart, “You can’t take it with you.” True riches are eternal. They don’t end. Our investments enrich us here and forever. God loves to reward those who get it right.
- Who/what gets my deepest trust and love? What does God’s test reveal?