Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt... Let's look at the treasures found in this world that so many are so desperately trying to lay up for themselves. We all take (far too much) for granted, the treasures that so many of our saints have suffered for, in not only times past, but even today. There are those today who are the "unsung" heroes of God---daily sacrificing a better way of life for the conditions in which they are required, to be able to get the message of God's love and salvation to others. We will not be able to retain this God-given heritage of ours, unless we esteem it in the right manner.

When we possess something that is of great value to us, we take very good care of it. Someone who has a nice home, works hard to keep it that way. They do whatever it takes to keep it that way. The same principle applies to all else that means something to us---we take care of it. That is, unless we are of those who take that which the Lord has blessed us with, for granted! If we are among that number, we are very careless with our things. We don't treasure them, we don't cherish them, we don't thank the Lord for them and the pleasure that we get through them.

Want to know how to recognize a true Christian? It won't be by the mark of their clothes, a label they are wearing, or any announcements made about them. It will be: that salvation means a great deal to them, and they are working to take care of it. That's the way EVERY child of God needs to be.

Just as houseplants need to be watered and cared for and allowed the proper amounts of sunshine to thrive, the true treasure you carry as a Christian has to be likewise cultivated. Otherwise, both the houseplant and "the treasure" will wilt and die. Yes, God gave us our Christian heritage and we need to make sure we take good care of it!!