Written by Jim Loscheider (Elder and Ramsey Solutions Master Financial Coach) September 2024.
The chill is in the air, and the leaves are turning. Soon the beauty of fall colors will ignite the mountains once again reminding us of the glory of God and the order He placed into the universe. Fall is also a time of harvest and reflection on what the year has provided, some good things, and perhaps some challenging things. However, none of it escapes the watchful and compassionate eye of our Heavenly Father.
Our lives have seasons too. One season we don’t often like to think about is the season of our last days on this planet. However, if we look to the Lord, we clearly see He has much in store for us in the future when we shed these frail bodies and enter into our eternal inheritance. We have a glorious inheritance reserved and protected for us in heaven.
It’s interesting to me that we all want to feel safe and secure. But whenever we base our sense of security on the things of this world, we can expect to be dissatisfied, disappointed, and at times frustrated. This is especially true when it comes to our finances. That’s why remembering our eternal future is so important. It’s where true riches await.
Here’s a thought: “But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal;” Matt 6:20 – Jesus is speaking.
Here’s how Peter put it: “Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, who according to His great mercy has caused us to be born again to a living hope through the resurrection of Jesus Christ from the dead, to obtain an inheritance which is imperishable and undefiled and will not fade away, reserved in heaven for you, who are protected by the power of God through faith for a salvation ready to be revealed in the last time.” 1Peter 1:3-5
Isn’t it wonderful to know that as believers we have an inheritance that cannot be stolen or diminished? Markets here on earth go up and down all the time. However, this inheritance is not fluctuating. It was given to us when we placed our hope and trust in Jesus Christ as Lord and savior. Our future inheritance won’t ever be taken away because it’s reserved and protected for us in heaven. Someday, when we see Jesus face-to-face, we will receive and then forever enjoy the fullness of our inheritance.
But did you know that every day we live on this earth, we have an opportunity to build up that future inheritance by investing in the things God values? That’s what Jesus was talking about above in Matthew 6. Whenever we invest (notice I didn’t say give) in ministry, we are investing in an Eternity Portfolio. What does your Eternity Portfolio look like? Are you more concerned with investments in this life than with everlasting treasures? It is very easy to let daily demands and responsibilities overshadow the importance of building the “already, but not yet” eternal Kingdom. Take time each day to refocus your mind, heart, and the resources that the Lord has entrusted to you. Then start investing in wealth that has lasting value. The Bible teaches that when we live righteously and obey God, and steward wisely what He’s entrusted to us, we’re adding to the treasure that awaits us. He’s the owner of it all. We are the stewards. Steward wisely.