Guard Against Covetousness and Find True Treasure, Part 3

November, 2004

by: Shelbi Cullen

Last month as we began our study of Luke 12:13-34 and the issue of covetousness, we were able to pull out our first Biblical principle based on what we learned from the parable of the rich fool. (Luke 12:16-21). We observed that he was self focused and anxious about his life. Having learned that, we were able to glean a very important Biblical Principle, “Stop Fretting About Your Life and Trust God.” Because immediately following the parable, Jesus gave 3 reasons why being anxious about one's life is foolish. For this article we are going to take a look at Biblical Principle #2 which is “Set Your Mind on the Things above; where Christ sits at the Right Hand of God.”

In Luke 12:31, Jesus says “But seek His kingdom, and these things will be added to you.” The Greek word for seek is zēteō (ζητέω); it means to find out by meditating; reasoning, or to inquiring within. Thus we are being told to inquire about or meditate upon this kingdom not after what we will eat or drink. In fact if we seek this kingdom, all these things will be added to you. In other words, God will provide. But what Kingdom is Jesus referring to? Upon consultation with Pastor Jack, he helped me to understand that in order to have a kingdom you need three things. First, you need a King (In this case Jesus is our King). Second, you need a place to rule over. (In this case Jesus is the King over heaven and earth). Third you need subjects. (In this case Jesus wants you to be his subject through repentance and faith.) And because Jesus is talking to believers in the context of Luke 12:31, He is telling the Disciples and us that we are to seek, meditate, inquire, and to know your King better and to walk in His ways more faithfully. One example of what Jesus is talking about can be found in Colossians 3:1-5. Paul tells the church in Colosse and us a very important truth, Since believers have not only died with Christ but have also been raised with Christ, we should be setting our hearts (which to the Jew encompasses your mind, affection, and will) on the things above. In other words, you and I, our lives are to be dominated by the pattern of heaven, bringing heavenly direction to our earthly duties. Our entire disposition is to be one that points itself to heaven by fixing our eyes and centering our lives on the ascended, glorified Christ, who is seated at the right hand of God. And even though in the context of Luke 12:31, Christ had not died yet, the Disciples still understood what it meant to live an upright life centered upon God. So how can you live a life that points itself toward the things of heaven? First, Seek the Lord on a regular basis. Set aside daily time to be alone with God, to meditate on His Word, to worship Him, and for prayer. (Psalm 62:8). Second, Study His Word Diligently. God has graciously given you His Word so that you can grow in your knowledge of who He is and who you are. It will also help you grow in true worship and in a proper view of God. Jesus concludes his thought with regard to seeking His kingdom in verse 32, “Fear not little flock, for it is your Father's good pleasure to give you the kingdom.” In other words, God has “gladly chosen” you to receive the Kingdom; so you need not fear, just keep seeking His Kingdom and all those things you worry about will be added unto you, because He knows exactly what you need. Next month, Biblical Principle #3; Stop Focusing on Earthly Treasure and Invest in the Eternal.