“… For the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light.” (Luke 16:8)
Whether they steal or cheat the “children of this world” are intent on securing this world’s goods. Their daily concern is how they might increase in earthly riches. Jesus held forth the unjust steward as a prime example of this drive and desire. He contrasted such with the children of light. Where is the desire of God’s children to obtain heavenly treasure? Why aren’t they as driven to accumulate the riches Christ counsels us to buy? Is it because they believe they are already “rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing” (Rev. 3:17)?
Jesus promised that if we would seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, everything we have need of would be added to us. We can be careful and troubled over many things we don’t need to stress over. God tells us to be content with food and raiment. Jesus told us that the Father who feeds the sparrows and clothes the lilies of the field, can well provide those things for us. God’s concern is that our obsessions over these things choke His Word in our life; consuming us to such an extent that we neglect the greater pursuit.
There will be no laying up of treasure in heaven when our minds are set upon the things of this earth. Gain of earthly treasure is not a mark of godliness or God’s favor on our life. Instead, godliness with contentment is great gain. What are we after? What drives us day in and day out? Outdo the children of this world. Be more zealous than they are to gain greater treasure than they could ever hope to gain.