CITIZENS OF HEAVEN

"For our citizenship is in heaven, from which also we eagerly wait for a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ; who will transform the body of our humble state into conformity with the body of His glory, by the exertion of the power that He has even to subject all things to Himself." (Philippians 3:20-21, NASB)

Devotion 17 of 24

TREASURES IN HEAVEN

Under the Law, the Lord demanded that His people NOT appear before Him "empty" (Ex 23:15; 34:20; Deut 16:16). There is something about "having nothing" that is unnatural for God's "offspring." Poverty, particularly spiritual poverty, is a reproach. This does not mean those deprived of earthly necessities are cursed by God, or occupy an unacceptable position. God forbid! Lazarus was "a beggar full of sores," deprived of all earthly advantage. This did not, however, exclude him from heaven's attention or eternal solace. His earthly condition was assessed by Abraham as Lazarus experiencing "evil things" (Luke 16:19-25). The Lord created man to possess all things, not be without! Lazarus' experience on earth contradicted his heavenly citizenship. That is why he was comforted when he departed the cursed realm.

Some false prophets have distorted this truth by affirming God wants His people to be rich in this world. Their arguments are extensive, and many have been deceived by them. Jesus, however, speaks of treasures from a different point of view. He knows there is an inherent desire in man to possess something of his own. He therefore admonishes us to seek after the best things. "But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal" (Matt 6:20). Citizens of heaven have treasures in heaven! That is where their true valuables exist!

On one occasion, Jesus encountered a rich young ruler. The man had a desire to inherit eternal life, and therefore asked the Master how he might obtain that desire. In a sifting manner, Jesus pointed the young man to the Law. He did so in order that He might uncover his real situation. Coming to grips with the young ruler's lust for riches, Jesus taught the world with His reply. "Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me" (Mark 10:21). There is no advantage to having a lot in this world, and yet nothing in heaven--none at all!

If you are in Christ, you are a citizen in heaven. As such, your treasures are being kept there for you. Now they are hidden, but they shall not always be concealed! Your role is to maintain your citizenship in and conversance with heaven! In the end, you will obtain your "true riches" (Luke 16:11-12). Even if their earthly goods are plundered,
those in Christ know in themselves that they "have in heaven a better and an enduring substance" (Heb 10:34).

PRAYER POINT: Father, I thank You through Jesus for eternal riches, kept in heaven where they cannot erode or be stolen.

-- Tomorrow: HEAVENLY INSIGHTS --