True Treaures

The scripture of this week is a classic taken from Matthew 6:20

20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:

Here I will 1) explain what this verse means to me, 2) explain the principle in this passage, and 3) apply it to our own lives.

As a child I absolutely loved to collect little bits and bobs and place them in a $3 box that I had bought at Michael's. These little "treasures" gave me great joy - not because they were useful, or they improved my life in any way, but simply because they were pretty. The urge to collect and organize and primp things in my life so that they look pretty is one that I have not entirely outgrown. As I continue my education I catch myself joining clubs and applying for programs not because I am so interested in the opportunity itself, but because I think it will look good on a resume. To me, this verse serves as a reminder that my energy needs to be placed in the progression of my spiritual self, rather than my material possessions. To lay up treasures in heaven is to work on perfecting the traits needed for exaltation, and to pursue the ordinances that are required for the Celestial Kingdom. Such "treasures" cannot be altered by physical ailments (i.e. moths, rust) and since they are not corporeal thieves have no power to plunder.

The principle at its most basic form is this: prioritize things necessary for your eternal welfare over things that you want in your mortal life.

How do you know what is necessary and what is simply a want you may have? The scriptures offer insight and examples of men who had to choose between good, better, and best. Lehi was a wealthy merchant but had to live poorly in the wilderness for years. Jonah wanted to maintain his dignity but he had to preach the word of God to a people who would likely scorn him. Amulek wanted to save his wife and children but had to let them burn and instead continue as a missionary. In modern times we will not likely be asked to perform feats of the same intensity, but we will need to sacrifice good careers, plans with friends, relationships, recreational favorites, and much more in order to realign our priorities with God. It is only in this way that we can truly find treasure.