“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.” – Matthew 6:19-20 (NKJV)
Success, wealth, and recognition are often viewed as the ultimate goals in life. Many tirelessly
chase after power, financial stability, and worldly achievements, believing that these will bring
lasting satisfaction. However, history and Scripture repeatedly show that worldly glory is fleeting,
and without God, even the greatest successes eventually crumble into dust.
The Folly of Earthly Success: King Nebuchadnezzar learned this lesson the hard way. Proud of
his vast empire, he declared, “Is not this great Babylon, that I have built for a royal dwelling by
my mighty power and for the honor of my majesty?” (Daniel 4:30, NKJV). But before he could
bask in his achievements, God humbled him. Stripped of his power, he lived like an animal until
he acknowledged that true greatness comes from God (Daniel 4:33-37).
Another example is the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9). The people sought to make a name for
themselves by building a monument to their own glory, but God scattered them, proving that
human success apart from Him is meaningless. Even Solomon, the wealthiest and wisest king,
admitted, “Vanity of vanities, all is vanity” (Ecclesiastes 1:2, NKJV), realizing that earthly
accomplishments mean nothing without God.
True Success: Investing in Eternal Treasures: Jesus warned against trusting in material success:“For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul?” (Mark 8:36,NKJV). 

Worldly riches, fame, and achievements perish, but treasures laid up in heaven last

forever. The only legacy that truly matters is one that glorifies God and impacts lives for eternity.

Ellen G. White writes, “No scheme of business or plan of life can be sound or complete that
embraces only the brief years of this present life and makes no provision for the unending future.”
(Education, p. 145). True success is measured not by what we achieve on earth, but by our
faithfulness to God.
Application
What are you striving for? Are your goals centered on earthly recognition, or are you investing in
things that have eternal value?
Practical Steps:
1. Reevaluate your priorities – Are you building a life that honors God or one focused on
personal success?
2. Invest in eternal treasures – Serve others, share the gospel, and use your talents for God’s
glory.
3. Trust God with your future – Success is not about personal ambition but about fulfilling
God’s purpose for your life.
Prayer

Heavenly Father, Help me to seek Your kingdom first, rather than chasing after worldly success.
Teach me to value eternal treasures over temporary achievements. May my life reflect Your glory,
and may my greatest success be found in faithfully serving You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.