Many years ago the Lord challenged me with this question: Am I building the Kingdom of God or my own kingdom here on earth? In Matthew 6, Jesus encourages Christians not to strive after things here on earth. God is our provider. Yet, we spend so much time, money and emotional energy yearning after material things and, ultimately, building earthly kingdoms!

Jesus said, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. (v. 19)

No one can serve two masters. 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 both God and Money.” (v. 24)

Does this mean that we are not to buy clothing, homes, or cars? Does this mean that we are not allowed to buy new furniture or furnishings? Do we all have to live in shacks?

No. What this means is that we are not to be “seeking” after material things. We should not feel compelled to keep up with the Joneses or drive the nicest car. We should not have to be the best dressed or impress people with the size of our homes.

Years ago we had very little money for needs other than the most basic, and almost none for clothing for our growing family. One day I realized that my little ones needed new clothing, the season having changed. Being the resourceful woman that I am, I spent days scouring the thrift shops and provided a trendy, sizeable wardrobe for my children for very little money. I was so pleased with myself. Do you know, later that week someone gave me enough clothing for all of my children. If I had inquired of the Lord or submitted the need to Him, I would have been compelled to wait. Instead, in my own strength (and just a little pride), I provided clothing for my children, wasting money, my time and energy.

Building the Kingdom of God should be the highest priority in our lives. Everything else will pass away--is fleeting pleasure. For we are pilgrims and strangers on earth (Hebrews 11:13).

If the Lord told you to sell (or give away) all your belongings, would you be able to obey? Or are you like the rich young ruler in Matthew 19:16-24 that just couldn't part with his fortune and go the last step to achieve eternal life (sell all that he had and give it to the poor). Is your heart rooted too much in the things of this world?

“Therefore, I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more important than food, and the body more important than clothes? ...So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ and ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them...(v.25)

But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well!!!” (v. 33)

Whose kingdom are you building?

©Copyright 2003 by Michele Haynes.