How to Cultivate a Life Rich Towards God Beyond Material Wealth
- healingofthenations
- 16 hours ago
- 3 min read
Many people measure success by the abundance of their possessions. Yet, Jesus challenges this view in Luke 12:13-21, warning against covetousness and teaching that true life does not depend on material wealth. Instead, He calls us to be rich towards God. This concept invites believers to shift their focus from earthly treasures to spiritual riches that last for eternity.
This post explores what it means to be rich towards God and offers practical steps to cultivate a life centered on God’s presence and promises.
Understanding What It Means to Be Rich Towards God
Jesus tells a parable about a rich man who stored up abundant crops but was called a fool because he did not consider his soul’s eternal state. The man’s wealth could not save him from death or secure his soul’s future. Jesus concludes, “So is he who lays up treasure for himself, and is not rich toward God.”
Being rich towards God means:
Prioritizing your relationship with God above material gain.
Investing in spiritual growth and eternal values.
Recognizing that life’s true meaning comes from God’s presence, not possessions.
This teaching challenges believers to evaluate where their treasure lies because “where your treasure is, there will your heart be also” (Matthew 6:21).
How to Become Rich Towards God
Jesus gives a key to living a life rich towards God in Matthew 4:4: “Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God.” This means spiritual nourishment through God’s Word is essential.
1. Commit to Daily Bible Reading
Regularly reading the Bible opens your heart to God’s truth and guidance. It helps you:
Understand God’s character and promises.
Receive wisdom for daily decisions.
Grow in faith and trust.
Start with small, manageable portions and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal insights that apply to your life.
2. Seek God’s Revelation Through Prayer
Prayer is a conversation with God that deepens your relationship. When you pray:
You express your dependence on God.
You invite His guidance and peace.
You align your desires with His will.
Make prayer a daily habit, not just a request for needs but a time to listen and reflect.
3. Live with Eternal Perspective
Being rich towards God means focusing on what lasts beyond this life. Jesus encourages believers to:
Store treasures in heaven, not on earth.
Use resources to bless others and advance God’s kingdom.
Practice generosity and kindness.
This mindset frees you from anxiety over material things and fills your heart with lasting joy.
4. Cultivate a Heart Close to God
Jesus valued a heart that draws near to God. To cultivate this closeness:
Spend quiet time in worship and meditation.
Surround yourself with a community of believers.
Serve others with love and humility.
These practices nurture your spiritual life and keep your heart aligned with God’s purposes.
Practical Examples of Being Rich Towards God
A pastor who prioritizes daily devotionals and prayer before ministry work. This keeps their heart focused on God’s guidance rather than success metrics.
A teacher who uses their talents to serve the church and community, sharing God’s love through actions.
An evangelist who trusts God’s provision and focuses on souls rather than financial gain.
Each example shows how spiritual richness transforms daily life and ministry.
Final Thoughts
Being rich towards God means choosing a life centered on His Word, prayer, and eternal values. It requires intentional commitment to seek God daily and to store treasures in heaven through love, service, and faith.
Reflect on where your heart’s treasure lies today. Begin cultivating a life rich towards God by opening your Bible, praying earnestly, and living with an eternal perspective. This journey leads to true abundance that no earthly wealth can match.
