Approximately $6.3 billion in cryptocurrency was stolen last week by hackers in what is being described as the largest crypto heist in history. The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) says the North Korean regime is responsible for the theft, which was conducted under the moniker of TraderTraitor. The assets were stolen off the Binance exchange, which was forced to temporarily halt withdrawals. The company claims to have now reimbursed 95% of the losses and has restored the ability for customers to withdraw funds.
Analysis and eternal perspective: “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal” (Matt. 6:19-21).
First, the command above is simply sound financial advice. No matter where you choose to invest your earthly assets, there is risk because everything of this world will one day pass away to make way for the eternal. So even in a wealth sense, only that which you invest in the eternal Kingdom will be safe from theft (or decay, or loss, or any other form of destruction).
But more important than any of the above, let’s consider for a moment the “why” we should invest in the eternal. It is not primarily because doing so protects the investment from deterioration (though that is a great benefit). The primary reason we are instructed to store up treasure in heaven is found in the very next verse: “For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also” (Matt. 6:21).
My friend, God doesn’t need your wealth or your possessions, but He is desperate for your heart. He longs to be the object of your affection and your praise (Is. 43:21). So look in the mirror and honestly ask yourself today, “Where is my treasure?” The answer will reveal where your heart is set, whether intentionally or by force of human nature. Let’s each take a small but resolute step today to shift our hearts and our treasure toward the eternal, and let’s do it primarily not to protect our treasure but rather as a statement of Who holds our heart!
The preceding article originally appeared in Thann’s “The Equipped” Weekly Newsletter. For more information on Thann’s weekly email, click here.