We were able to conclude our study of the middle chapter of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus teaches his disciples concerning the power of motive and how it drives what kind of reward will be received. These three acts of Jewish piety found in v.1-18 are critical to understanding what the true treasure is for the Jews to aspire to. The eternal reward / treasure in heaven is all about the attitude of the heart / the motive behind the pious act.
Why did you give? Matthew 6:1-4
How did you pray? Matthew 6:5-13 (V.14-15 deals with the If / Then transactional principles the Jews lived by in the nation's relationship with God before the cross.)
Why did you fast? Matthew 6:16-18 – Fasting is never about currying favor from God. It is about drawing oneself into a deeper fellowship with God. Fasting is always coupled with prayer. It is not a “stand alone” spiritual journey. Daniel 9:1-6, Matthew 17:14-21, 1 Corinthians 7:5
Matthew 6:19-24: The true treasure is all about the pure motive of a deeper walk with God.
1 Corinthians 10:31, Colossians 3:12-25
Matthew 6:25-34: The cure for anxiety
Keeping an eternal perspective, focusing on the heavenly treasure, and understanding that our time in this world is a temporary habitation, our stress levels will fall dramatically.
2 Thessalonians 1:3-12, Galatians 6:7-10, Philippians 4:6-7
Galatians 6:9: And let us not be weary in well doing: for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.
Philippians 4:6-7: Be careful (anxious) for nothing; but in every thing by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known unto God. And the peace of God, which passeth all understanding, shall keep your hearts and minds through Christ Jesus.
The blessed hope is knowing that we have a home in heaven! 2 Corinthians 5:1-5
Titus 1:2: In hope of eternal life, which God, that cannot lie, promised before the world began;
