Sunday July 27th 2025

(Holy Communion Service)

Introduction

Lay-Reader Alice Murage opened with Psalm 24:1 (“The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it”), reminding the congregation that all wealth and possessions ultimately belong to God. Drawing from Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 6:19–21, she emphasized that earthly treasures are temporary, but heavenly treasures are eternal. Using King Solomon as an example—the wisest and richest man who still found earthly wealth unsatisfying (Ecclesiastes 2:11)—she challenged believers to shift their focus from material accumulation to eternal investments.

Key Points

1. What We Must Do to Entrust Our Wealth to God

A. Prioritize Spiritual Growth (Matthew 6:33)

• Action: Seek God’s kingdom first by cultivating a deep relationship with Him through prayer, Scripture, and obedience.

• Truth: Earthly riches fade, but spiritual growth prepares us for eternity.
• Example: Solomon had wisdom and wealth but concluded that without God, everything is “meaningless” (Ecclesiastes 1:2).

B. Cultivate a Spirit of Contentment (1 Timothy 6:6–8)

• Action: Learn to be satisfied in God’s provision, not chasing after more.
• Truth: Contentment guards against greed and aligns our hearts with God’s will.

C. Practice Stewardship and Generosity (2 Chronicles 29:11)

• Action: Faithfully manage and generously share what God has entrusted to you.
• Truth: Giving reflects trust in God’s ownership and breaks the power of materialism.
• Scripture: “My sons and daughters, do not be negligent now, for the Lord has chosen you to stand before Him and serve Him.” (2 Chronicles 29:11)

2. The Benefits of Investing in Heavenly Treasures

1. Eternal Security (Matthew 6:20)

   • Earthly wealth can be lost, but heavenly rewards are forever.

2. True Satisfaction (Ecclesiastes 5:10)

   • Unlike Solomon’s empty pursuits, God’s treasures bring lasting fulfillment.

3. Divine Assurance (1 John 2:17)
   • Those who live for God’s kingdom inherit eternal life.

Conclusion

Lay-Reader Alice Murage closed with a call to action:

• Examine Your Heart: Where is your treasure—in banks or in heaven?
• Repent of Greed: If materialism has taken God’s place, surrender it today.
• Live Generously: Use your resources for God’s glory, not self-glory.

Final Charge: “Just as Solomon discovered, earthly treasures cannot satisfy. But when we store up treasures in heaven, we gain what truly lasts—God’s eternal kingdom.”