Our Wonderfully Weird Command is "Lay Up Treasures." This excellent teaching sits in Matthew 6:19, Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. When this teaching is a reality in a person's makeup, "Thriftiness" is the result.
What does "Lay up treasures" mean, and why is it so important? First, this command is essential because it shows where a person’s priorities stand. A Christian's priority is first Heavenly things than earthly things, never the other way around. We do this to ensure our hearts stay focused on God's purpose rather than leaning on our selfish desires. The term lay-up means "to accumulate," to gather earthly treasures such as money, jewels, or stuff. All Christians need to understand that their worldly possessions are resources to multiply God's kingdom. This principle is how the local church funds its mission and grows. This work is why we give to our church first; then other causes, hence Paul's words to the local church in Corinth: On the first day of every week, each of you is to put something aside and store it up, as he may prosper ~ 1 Corinthians 16:2.
If the command is followed, the return is "Thriftiness" in our character. For the Christian, thriftiness means to multiply resources through wise investments so a person can give more back to God’s work. Thriftiness is the basis of Jesus' teaching on being a good steward of life with earthly treasures. If you expect joy and fulfillment in your life, this trait must prioritize who you are and what you do. The highest prize a Christian should strive for is to hear the words of their Lord and Savior, “Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master (Matthew 25:23).
Is there a difference between thriftiness and cheapness? Certainly! Thriftiness uses as few resources as possible to be responsible for meeting my own needs to have more resources to give back to God’s Work. On the other hand, cheapness is a form of stinginess and keeps back resources to serve my pleasures and wants, primarily for my goodness and selfishness. Typically, when someone falls into this habit of living, "Extravagance" is the consequence. Extravagance is spending more money than is reasonable or a person can afford. A reality that shows where a person’s priorities sit. Debt should come to mind.
A person who accepts the command, "Lay Up Treasures," is a person who understands earthly treasures are not the primary motivator in life, but God's work and purposes are. It also shows they are a true disciple of Christ who practices thriftiness because they completely "Trust" in the Lord. Today, I encourage all to follow this well-needed command to yield to the treasures of heaven where true Joy resides, not only now but for all eternity.