When you see the word treasure, do you think about what it means? For example, treasure is “a quantity of precious metals, gems, or other valuable objects”. What do you value as your treasure and where are you putting it? Firstly, let’s be the dads who see our wives and kids as our treasures and do all we can to store their souls in Heaven where nothing can rob or steal them and nothing can destroy them. Secondly, let’s be the dads who do all that we can to get to spend all of eternity with our wives and kids in Heaven! Finally, let’s be the dads who meditate and reflect upon God’s Word.
Consider what we read in Matthew about treasure, choices, and focus.
Lessons about treasure from Matthew 6
‘ “And whenever you are fasting, do not look gloomy like the hypocrites, for they put on a sad and dismal face [like actors, discoloring their faces with ashes or dirt] so that their fasting may be seen by men. I assure you and most solemnly say to you, they [already] have their reward in full. But when you fast, put oil on your head [as you normally would to groom your hair] and wash your face so that your fasting will not be noticed by people, but by your Father who is in secret; and your Father who sees [what is done] in secret will reward you.
“Do not store up for yourselves [material] treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in and steal; for where your treasure is, there your heart [your wishes, your desires; that on which your life centers] will be also.
“The eye is the lamp of the body; so if your eye is clear [spiritually perceptive], your whole body will be full of light [benefiting from God’s precepts]. But if your eye is bad [spiritually blind], your whole body will be full of darkness [devoid of God’s precepts]. So if the [very] light inside you [your inner self, your heart, your conscience] is darkness, how great and terrible is that darkness!
“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon [money, possessions, fame, status, or whatever is valued more than the Lord]. ‘
Matthew 6:16-24
Let’s consider today’s verse of the day and how our decision about how and where to store our treasures impacts our lives. Let’s reflect on what it has to say so that we can grasp its life impact!
Today’s Verse of the Day about Treasure:
for where your treasure is, there your heart [your wishes, your desires; that on which your life centers] will be also.
Matthew 6:21 AMP
Firstly, let’s be the dads who consider what we truly value and what or who is/are our treasure! Secondly, let’s be the dads who think about where we put our treasure to understand its eternal impact. Thirdly, let’s remember the storage location for our treasure impacts where our focus or heart will be! Finally, let’s put our treasure in heaven so that our hearts, our wishes, and our desires will keep our focus and attention on the things of God and spending eternity with Him!
So how can we apply today’s verse of the day and prioritize our loved ones by living out the principles of Matthew 6:21?
Applications of Matthew 6:21 towards being the dads that God created, purposed, and planned for us to be for our wives, kids, and loved ones:
- Prioritize quality time: Spend intentional and meaningful time with your wife, children, and family. Create traditions, engage in activities together, and make lasting memories.
- Show love and affection: Express your love and affection towards your spouse and children through words, acts of kindness, and physical touch. Let them know they are cherished and valued.
- Be present and attentive: When you are with your family and friends, be fully present and engaged. Put away distractions like phones and actively listen and participate in conversations and activities.
- Serve and support: Actively serve and support your spouse and children. Offer help with household chores, schoolwork, or any other areas where they may need assistance. Be their biggest cheerleader.
- Lead by example: Demonstrate godly values and character through your actions. Be a role model of integrity, honesty, humility, and compassion. Teach your children the importance of following Jesus and living a life that honors God.
- Invest in their spiritual growth: Encourage your family’s spiritual development by praying together, reading the Bible, attending church, and engaging in discussions about faith. Foster an environment where everyone can grow in their relationship with God.
- Communicate openly: Create an atmosphere of open communication within your family. Encourage your spouse and children to express their thoughts, feelings, and concerns. Listen attentively and respond with love and understanding.
- Celebrate milestones and achievements: Celebrate the accomplishments and milestones of your loved ones. Whether it’s a graduation, promotion, or personal achievement, recognize and appreciate their efforts.
- Provide emotional support: Be a source of comfort and encouragement for your spouse and children during challenging times. Offer a listening ear, provide guidance, and assure them of your unwavering support.
- Make sacrifices: Sometimes, being the dad God created you to mean making sacrifices for the sake of your family. Put their needs above your own, and be willing to give up personal desires or ambitions to ensure their well-being and happiness.
