Placing Value in the Right Stuff: A Christian Perspective

Discover the true meaning of value as a Christian. Learn how to prioritize God's kingdom, invest in relationships, and use your resources for good. Find out more here.

Are You Placing Value in the Right Stuff?

As humans, we all have certain things that we value in life. For some, it's material possessions like cars, houses, and designer clothes. For others, it's career success, fame, and recognition. And for some, it's family, friendships, and personal growth. But the question is, are we placing value in the right stuff? Are we focusing on the things that truly matter in the grand scheme of things?

In this article, we'll explore the concept of value and what the Bible has to say about it. We'll also look at some practical ways to ensure that we're placing value in the right things.

What is Value?

Value is the worth or importance that we place on something. It's a subjective concept that varies from person to person. For example, a piece of art that one person may value highly may be insignificant to another person. Similarly, an object that is highly valuable to one person may be worthless to someone else.

However, as Christians, we have a different perspective on value. We believe that true value comes from God and is not based on material possessions or worldly success. As the Bible says in Matthew 6:19-21, "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also."

So, as Christians, we should be placing value in the things that have eternal significance, such as our relationship with God, our character, and our impact on others.

What Does the Bible Say About Value?

The Bible has a lot to say about value and what we should be placing value in. Here are some key verses to consider:

1. Matthew 6:33 - "But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well." This verse reminds us to prioritize God's kingdom and righteousness above all else. When we do this, God promises to provide for our needs.

2. Philippians 3:7-8 - "But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all things. I consider them garbage, that I may gain Christ." This verse shows us that even the things that we may consider valuable, such as career success or material possessions, pale in comparison to the value of knowing Christ.

3. Colossians 3:2 - "Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things." This verse reminds us to focus on spiritual things rather than material things.

4. 1 Timothy 6:17-19 - "Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God, who richly provides us with everything for our enjoyment. Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way, they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life." This passage reminds us that wealth and possessions are fleeting and uncertain, but doing good and being generous have eternal significance.

Practical Ways to Place Value in the Right Things

Now that we have a better understanding of what true value is and what the Bible says about it, let's look at some practical ways to ensure that we're placing value in the right things.

1. Evaluate what you value - Take some time to reflect on what you currently value in life. Are these things aligned with what the Bible says about value? If not, make a conscious effort to shift your focus to things that have eternal significance.

2. Prioritize your relationship with God - Make sure that your relationship with God is your top priority. This means spending time in prayer and studying the Bible regularly, attending church, and seeking to live a life that honors God.

3. Invest in relationships - Relationships are one of the most valuable things we can have in life. Make sure to invest in relationships with family, friends, and those in your community.

4. Use your resources for good - Whether it's your time, money, or talents, use them to make a positive impact on others and further God's kingdom.

5. Cultivate a heart of gratitude - Recognize and appreciate the blessings in your life, no matter how small. Gratitude helps us to keep our focus on the things that truly matter.

Conclusion

As Christians, we have a unique perspective on value. We believe that true value comes from God and is not based on material possessions or worldly success. By prioritizing our relationship with God, investing in relationships, using our resources for good, and cultivating a heart of gratitude, we can ensure that we're placing value in the right things.

FAQs

1. Q: Is it wrong to value material possessions?
A: It's not necessarily wrong to value material possessions, but we should not place our ultimate value in them. As Christians, we should prioritize God's kingdom and righteousness above all else.

2. Q: How can I shift my focus from material things to spiritual things?
A: One practical way to shift your focus is to spend more time in prayer and studying the Bible. You can also seek out opportunities to serve others and invest in relationships with family and friends.

3. Q: What are some examples of things that have eternal significance?
A: Examples of things that have eternal significance include our relationship with God, our character, and our impact on others.

4. Q: How can I be more generous with my resources?
A: One way to be more generous is to give to organizations or causes that align with your values. You can also look for opportunities to volunteer your time or use your talents to serve others.

5. Q: What is the importance of gratitude in placing value in the right things?
A: Gratitude helps us to recognize and appreciate the blessings in our lives, no matter how small. By cultivating a heart of gratitude, we can keep our focus on the things that truly matter and avoid getting caught up in material possessions or worldly success.