Gold

Gold is a precious commodity. Some people believe it is the best investment we can make, especially during a troubled economic season.

I recently checked out some of the references to gold in the Bible.

In Matthew 2:11 we read about the wise men. “And when they had come into the house, they saw the young Child with Mary His mother, and fell down and worshiped Him. And when they had opened their treasures, they presented gifts to Him: gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” Those valuable gifts helped to enable Jesus’ family to follow the angel’s mandate and escape to Egypt and stay there for a few years. 

The book of Proverbs assures us that there are things more valuable than gold. “How much better to get wisdom than gold!” (Proverbs 16:16). “A good name is to be chosen rather than great riches, loving favor rather than silver and gold” (Proverbs 22:1).

I Peter 1:7 speaks of the value of faith especially during trials: “…that the genuineness of your faith, being much more precious than gold that perishes, though it is tested by fire, may be found to praise, honor, and glory at the revelation of Jesus Christ…“

The apostle Peter had witnessed the crucifixion of Jesus and understood its value to those who embrace its power in their lives. He said: “…you were not redeemed with corruptible things, like silver or gold, …but with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot” (I Peter 1:18-19).

Gold may help to protect us from financial disaster here on earth. But everything that has monetary value is temporary. Jesus emphasized the importance of heavenly treasure over earthly holdings. He said: “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy and where thieves break in and steal; but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matthew 6:19-21).

I guess the question we need to ask ourselves today is: “Where is my heart?” Am I focusing on what has eternal value? Or am I more concerned with things like gold, silver, houses, land, clothing, food, any temporary possessions? Well, you get the point, don’t you? None of these things are wrong in themselves. It’s a matter of priority.

So where is your heart’s priority today?