Store Up Treasures In Heaven

STORE UP TREASURES IN HEAVEN

Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal... But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal...

For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also............Mt.6: 19-21

In the tradition of "giving up" something for Lent, how about some of these (you have heard these before, but they bear repeating):

GIVE UP grumbling! Instead, "In everything give thanks." Constructive criticism is OK, but "moaning, groaning, and complaining" are not Christian disciplines.

GIVE UP 10 to 15 minutes in bed! Instead, use that time in prayer.

GIVE UP looking at ether people's worst points. Instead, concentrate on their best points. We all have faults. It will be easier for people overlook our shortcomings when we overlook theirs first.

GIVE UP speaking unkindly. Instead, let your speech be generous and understanding. It costs so little to say something kind and uplifting.

GIVE UP your worries and anxieties! Instead, trust God with them. Anxiety is spending emotional energy on something we can do nothing about... like tomorrow! Live for today and let God's grace be sufficient.

GIVE UP TV one evening a week! Instead, visit someone who is lonely or sick. There are those who are isolated by illness or age. Give someone a precious gift, your time!

GIVE UP buying anything but essentials for yourself! Instead, give the money to God. The money you would spend on the luxuries could help someone meet their basic needs. We are called to be stewards of God's bounty, not consumers.

Not a long list. I am sure you can think of things to add....And let’s dedicate Lent to a few reforms; use it as an excuse to be better.

Shalom