Treasures That Do Not Fade
Evening Peace: A Quiet Time of Prayer and Reflection Before Sleep
Tonight’s Verse
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, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.
Matthew 6:19-21
Reflection
As night falls and the concerns of the day begin to settle, Jesus’ words remind us to examine where our true treasure lies. In a world consumed by possessions, success, and fleeting comforts, he calls us to invest in something greater - eternal treasures that will never fade. Earthly wealth and achievements, though not inherently evil, are temporary. They’re vulnerable to decay, loss, and change. But the riches stored in heaven - acts of faith, love, obedience, and service - are secure and everlasting.
John Wesley once said, “I judge all things only by the price they shall gain in eternity.” This perspective urges us to shift our focus from the temporary to the eternal. What we value most shapes our hearts. If our treasure is in Christ and his Kingdom, our hearts will be anchored in his peace, rather than tossed about by the uncertainties of life. The pursuit of heavenly treasure leads to a life of trust, generosity, and devotion, freeing us from the anxieties that come with clinging to worldly things.
Tonight, as you prepare for rest, surrender any worries about material things, status, or security. Instead, fix your heart on the riches of knowing Christ and living for his Kingdom. Trust that he provides for all your needs and that the treasures he offers - peace, joy, and eternal life - are beyond compare. Let this assurance quiet your spirit, and sleep peacefully, knowing that your greatest wealth is found in him.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank you for the reminder that true treasure is found in you alone. Teach me to store up riches that will last - acts of love, faith, and obedience that glorify you. Help me release any anxieties over temporary things and trust in your perfect provision. Guard my heart from chasing after fleeting wealth, and anchor me in the joy of knowing you. As I rest tonight, fill me with peace and contentment in your eternal promises. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
Hymn Verse
“Riches I heed not, nor man’s empty praise,
Thou mine inheritance, now and always;
Thou and Thou only, first in my heart,
High King of Heaven, my treasure Thou art.”
(Be Thou My Vision, Ancient Irish Hymn, trans. Mary E. Byrne, 1905)
This Evening Peace devotional reminds us to seek lasting treasure in God’s Kingdom rather than fleeting earthly riches. As you rest tonight, may your heart be set on the eternal wealth of Christ, bringing you deep and abiding peace.