What does the Bible say about earthly treasures?

Definition and Nature of Earthly Treasures

Earthly treasures refer to material possessions, wealth, and belongings that individuals accumulate. These can include money, property, luxury items, and other resources people value. Scripture repeatedly addresses these possessions, cautioning that while they can meet physical needs, they can also distract from a deeper relationship with God. According to Matthew 6:19, believers are admonished: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth...”

Biblical Perspective on Material Possessions

From Genesis through Revelation, the Bible recognizes that material goods are part of life. In many Old Testament narratives, wealth is sometimes portrayed as a divine blessing (e.g., Genesis 13:2 describes Abram as “very wealthy in livestock, silver, and gold”). However, these accounts also show the responsibility to use resources in a manner that honors God.

In the New Testament, Jesus teaches that wealth ought to serve God’s purposes rather than compete with them. He reminds His listeners that God alone is worthy of ultimate devotion (Matthew 6:24). This consistent biblical theme places God as supreme owner of all things (Psalm 24:1) and humans as stewards.

Warnings and Dangers of Earthly Treasures

A recurring biblical caution is that earthly treasures can distract from eternal priorities and lead to spiritual peril. First Timothy 6:10 warns, “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil...”. The emphasis here is on the “love” (or devotion) to money—and not money itself.

Jesus’ parable of the rich man and Lazarus (Luke 16:19–31) illustrates the eternal consequences of pursuing selfish comfort. Similarly, the parable about the rich fool (Luke 12:16–21) highlights the folly of hoarding earthly abundance without a heart toward God. Scripture consistently warns that earthly riches can quickly consume the affection that should go to God.

Proper Attitude Toward Earthly Treasures

A central biblical message is that material riches should not become idols. In Matthew 6:21, Jesus states, “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” This teaching underscores that material wealth can reveal the true focus of one’s heart.

Believers are urged to hold possessions loosely, remain humble, and cultivate contentment. First Timothy 6:7 says, “For we brought nothing into the world, and neither can we carry anything out of it.” This reminder puts the fleeting nature of physical resources into perspective and encourages a posture of gratitude and stewardship rather than greed.

Temporal Nature of Earthly Treasures

Multiple biblical passages stress that earthly treasures fade. Proverbs 23:5 notes that wealth can “sprout wings and fly off.” Jesus likewise teaches in Matthew 6:19–20: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy... But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven...” This juxtaposition contrasts the short-lived nature of worldly possessions with the enduring value of heavenly riches.

James 4:14 also reminds us that life itself “is a mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes.” The impermanence of life should move believers to weigh carefully how they handle resources.

Heavenly Treasures vs. Earthly Treasures

The Bible directs attention to providing for needs in this life, but always with an eye on eternity. Heavenly treasures refer to rewards and blessings that come from living a life pleasing to God—marked by kindness, righteousness, generosity, and faith. These treasures are imperishable and align with God’s eternal kingdom.

In contrast, earthly treasures are perishable. By urging believers to lay up treasures in heaven, Christ reorients life’s priorities away from the temporary and toward what holds eternal significance. This teaching is central to the Christian worldview: focus on God’s kingdom first (Matthew 6:33).

Biblical Teaching on Godly Stewardship

Stewardship involves managing God-given resources responsibly and for God’s glory. The Bible recognizes that those who have more can use their abundance to bless others. Second Corinthians 9:6–7 encourages generous giving: “...whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give...”.

Scripture also teaches diligence in work (Proverbs 10:4) and warns against laziness (2 Thessalonians 3:10). The goal is not self-indulgence, but virtue and service, using material blessings as part of loving one’s neighbor (Mark 12:31).

Historical and Cultural Observations

Throughout history, people have been tempted to amass wealth in pursuit of security or status. Archaeological excavations in regions of the Middle East, for instance, uncover lavish tombs designed to preserve riches in the afterlife. These cultural artifacts reflect humanity’s enduring inclination to put hope in possessions.

Yet, biblical manuscripts across centuries remain consistent in teaching that ultimate fulfillment rests in God—not wealth. Ancient records from Church history also document individuals who practiced generosity and voluntary poverty (e.g., historical accounts of the early Desert Fathers in the 3rd and 4th centuries) to illustrate the biblical ideal of putting eternal matters first.

Practical Applications

1. Examine Heart Attitudes: Reflect regularly on where your greatest devotion lies. If acquiring and maintaining wealth consumes your thoughts, it may signal unhealthy attachment.

2. Practice Generosity: Giving to those in need and supporting ministry fosters an eternal mindset. It reminds us that resources are entrusted to us for a higher purpose.

3. Seek Contentment: Learn to say, as Paul does in Philippians 4:11, that you are content “whatever the circumstances.” This mindset counters materialism’s endless drive for more.

4. Invest in Eternal Values: Prioritize spiritual disciplines—prayer, studying Scripture, fellowship—over relentless pursuit of financial success.

Conclusion

Earthly treasures have their place in daily provisions and can be used for God’s glory. Yet Scripture unambiguously cautions that material riches can become spiritual snares if they seize our hearts. Every resource is ultimately bestowed by God, and believers are called to steward these gifts wisely, attentive to the imperishable treasures of the kingdom of heaven.

As we handle earthly possessions with an eternal perspective, we find deeper fulfillment and align our lives with God’s design. By seeking first God’s kingdom (Matthew 6:33) and anchoring our hope in Christ, we keep earthly treasures in their proper, fleeting context and discover true riches that never perish.