LeadTip #13 The purpose of our lives

“Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. Matthew 6:19-21

Jesus teaches an alternative lifestyle to what we see all around us in society. He elevates a focus on the after-life above the minimal time we have here on earth.

Does this mean we are to live an undisciplined and unproductive life of lack and poverty? Of course not. The Bible tells us God has plans to proper us. He has given each of us gifts and talents to bring blessing to our lives, families and others. The Bible even honors leaving an inheritance to our children. But Jesus does question the purpose of our lives.

Is our time, effort, energy, investment and thinking all about self indulgence and earthly security? Do we see the greater value of why God gave us the gift of life in the first place? Do we live in a way to bring glory to God?

Practically speaking, the question Jesus wants us to ponder is are we following His model and example for living? Are we concerned with helping and giving to others, bringing salvation to the spiritually lost, working along side of Him in the building of His church. Do we see this world as the end all, or as an opportunity to achieve the purposes of Christ and inherit eternal life?

Every person will give an account of how they used the gifts and talents given to them by God. Mother Teresa said, “A life not lived for others is not a life.” Let us always examine our hearts to keep Jesus at the center of it all and to maintain an eternal perspective on life. This is how to live to the fullest, with the greatest amount of joy, fulfillment, fruitfulness and godly success.

At the end of life on earth may we hear the Lord’s words “well done good and faithful servant.”