Lasting

It was by faith that Moses, when he grew up, refused to be called the son of Pharaoh’s daughter. He chose to share the oppression of God’s people instead of enjoying the fleeting pleasures of sin. He thought it was better to suffer for the sake of Christ than to own the treasures of Egypt, for he was looking ahead to his great reward.
Hebrews 11:24-26 NLT

We all remember stories that involve treasure chests. As children, we dreamed of finding one filled with gold coins or an abundance of jewels. Truth now - how many of us have ever kicked at a discarded bag or box on the off chance that there might be money in it? Have you ever allowed yourself to daydream of what you would do or buy or where you would go if you suddenly had a windfall of money?

Moses had it. He went from being a basket case to being the grandson of the richest man in Egypt (Exodus 2). They had the wealth and the best of everything. Money to burn and slaves to do their bidding for whatever they wanted. Someone to serve them hand and foot, do the cooking and the cleaning and fetching. Build a grand manor, etc. I would say, that could be pleasurable. However, it wasn't holy. 

Pharaoh's household were idolaters. They did not worship the true and living God. They worshiped gods of their flesh - sexually immoral, lascivious, gluttonous for the pleasures of sin. Yes, sin is pleasurable, but it's not lasting.

Pleasure is not eternal. However, the effect of sinful pleasure - the payoff - IS eternal. Romans 6:23: For the wages of sin is death, but the free gift of God is eternal life through Christ Jesus our Lord.  Matthew 6:20-21 instructs us to ...lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. So, where will we be?  In a season or everlasting? We must choose.  

Prayer:

Father,
         Open our eyes to see the true treasure - the everlasting, eternal treasure of following You. Give us the wisdom, strength and courage to choose life - the life we can find only in You. In Jesus' Name we pray. Amen