What is our highest priority?

Ecclesiastes 2:1-11 shows the futility of seeking worldly pleasure, wealth and materialism. In the end such pursuits are empty: "He who loves silver will not be satisfied with silver; nor he who loves abundance with increase" (Ecclesiastes 5:10).

This illustrates again the importance of putting the things of God and His Kingdom first because they alone give lasting satisfaction and fulfillment.

Jesus Christ tells us we cannot successfully focus on and place the correct emphasis on both God and "mammon"—material wealth (Matthew 6:24).

Therefore the choice between the two is an important one.

To help us consider and evaluate these alternatives, Jesus contrasted the value of each. Earthly treasure is easily destroyed or stolen, He said, although heavenly riches are not vulnerable to loss or theft and are therefore more enduring and substantial (verses 19-20).

Later He continued this theme by showing that being overly concerned with the cares of the world and the deceitfulness of riches can strangle the influence of God's Word, preventing spiritual growth and maturity (Matthew 13:22).

In Matthew 19:16-26 and Luke 12:13-34 He gives additional examples of the greater importance and value of setting our heart on spiritual priorities rather than material and earthly concerns.