An important part of Jesus’ ministry is teaching us about the economics of Heaven. In our world, we have economics; we have dollars and cents in business and commerce. But the Kingdom of the Heavens has its own economic system: a system in which we can invest and from which we can withdraw. The heavenly system can be one that we have accumulated huge debts that we feel like we can’t pay back. Does anyone feel indebted spiritually sometimes?

We think about treasures in Heaven as what is reserved for us in eternity. But the correct translation is “treasure in the heavens.” In Jesus’ day, this literally meant the air or atmosphere around you, in addition to the sun, moon and stars, not just an eternal location. Be convinced today that stored up treasure in the heavens, is not the riches or gold accumulated when you die. These riches consist of intangibles like God’s favor on your life. It’s the open doors no one can shut, or being acknowledged as a trustworthy person. Wisdom is a heavenly treasure that no one can steal from you.

Friend, these are the heavenly treasures no one can take from you and it’s the best kind of treasure we can have in this world. When we invest in these fortunes, lift up others, are honest about our lives, and do what is good and forthright, we store up treasures in the heavens — in the air around us — that no one can take from us.