Matthew·Chapter 6

How to Apply

This week, take a moment to reflect on your possessions and your priorities. Ask yourself: What do I spend the most time and energy on? Make a conscious effort to invest in experiences or relationships instead of things. Maybe plan a day out with a friend or volunteer your time for a cause you care about. Even start small—like decluttering a space in your home and donating what you don’t need. Each step you take can help redirect your focus from temporary treasures to lasting value.

Chapter Context

In this chapter, the author is exploring what it means to live a meaningful life. It starts with the idea of giving and generosity and then shifts to how we view our possessions and wealth. Right before this verse, there’s a discussion about where your heart is—what you truly care about. This verse pops up right at the moment when the author is making a powerful point: that if you invest in things that can disappear, your heart will be tied to those fleeting treasures. After this, the focus shifts to how you can truly invest in a life that matters, leading into discussions about worry and trust in the future. It all connects to a bigger narrative about priorities and intentions in life.

Key Biblical Words (Word Study)

• not - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• lay - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• up - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• yourselves - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• treasures - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• on - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• earth - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• where - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• moth - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".
• and - The original language uses a word that carries the meaning of "a deep biblical concept".

Reflection Question

What do you think are some treasures in your life that are temporary, and how can you shift your focus to what truly lasts?

Related Verses

• Luke 12:33 - Jesus encourages people to sell their possessions and give to those in need, emphasizing investing in things that have eternal value.
• 1 Timothy 6:17-19 - Paul advises rich people to not be proud or trust in their wealth, but to do good and share, which connects to the idea of focusing on lasting treasures.
• Proverbs 23:4-5 - This verse warns against exhausting yourself to get rich, reminding you that wealth is fleeting and can disappear quickly.

Personal Prayer

Lord, thank You for the truth found in Matthew 6:19. Help me to take the insights from this scripture and apply them to my heart today.Amen.

Frequently Asked Questions

Main Themes

Authentic Righteousness, Secret Giving, Prayer Model, Forgiveness, Heavenly Treasures, Sincerity in Worship, Divine Reward

Key Verses

Matthew 6:1, Matthew 6:9-13, Matthew 6:14-15, Matthew 6:19-20, Matthew 6:24

Historical Context

Matthew, one of the twelve apostles, wrote this Gospel primarily to a Jewish audience, highlighting Jesus as the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies. Chapter 6, part of the larger Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5-7), encapsulates Jesus' teachings on ethical living, emphasizing the importance of inner purity and sincere devotion to God. The chapter is set against the backdrop of first-century Jewish religious practices, where public displays of piety were common. Jesus challenges these norms, calling for a deeper, more genuine expression of faith that transcends mere external compliance.