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From the writings of the Rev. Billy Graham

 

Dear Rev. Graham: What does it mean to store up riches in Heaven, and is it true that when the Bible speaks of riches it is referring to virtues, not money? I do have wealth and underwrite many social causes. Does that have any merit in the afterlife? – H.S.

 

Dear H.S.: We are only stewards of the world’s resources. They are not ours; they are God’s. There’s nothing wrong with people possessing riches; the wrong comes when riches possess the person. But the Bible speaks of other kinds of riches and tells us not to store up “treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal,” but to lay up “treasures in heaven … for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:19–21, NKJV).

We often think of riches in a materialistic way, but God speaks of riches that don’t fade away. He will deposit His riches in the hearts of those who belong to Him and follow Him in this life.

Christians also possess richness through salvation in the Lord in this life. We can overflow with the fruit of the Spirit: unspeakable joy, peace that passes all understanding, wisdom, strength, and the love of Christ. Someone has said that these are the beautiful jewels in heavenly crowns because they are the attributes of Christ.

In Heaven, there will be many believers who never received any acknowledgment while on Earth, yet they faithfully prayed and humbly served Christ. Their crowns may sparkle with more jewels than the philanthropist who endowed the church and whose name is engraved on the plaque in the narthex. Paul warned the wealthy not to be haughty, not to seek men’s approval, but God’s.

The most glorious truth is that the greatest treasure will be ours when we are rewarded being in His very presence – forevermore.

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(This column is based on the words and writings of the late Rev. Billy Graham.)