As someone who has spent decades teaching about financial wisdom, investments, and stewardship, I’ve come to realize that the greatest investment any of us can make is not in stocks, bonds, mutual fund, bitcoins, real estate, or business ventures—it’s in the kingdom of God.

Jesus illustrated this truth in The Parable of the Hidden Treasure and the Pearl of Great Value:

“The kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and covered up. Then in his joy he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a merchant in search of fine pearls, who, on finding one pearl of great value, went and sold all that he had and bought it.” (Matthew 13:44-46, ESV)

These two short parables reveal a life-changing principle: when we truly see the worth of God’s kingdom, nothing else compares.

What Are We Willing to Trade?

As a financial planner, I often ask people, “What are you willing to give up to reach your financial goals?” Some people sacrifice luxuries to build savings. Others trade time to invest in their careers. Some even take risks, knowing that short-term losses may lead to long-term gains.

But when it comes to our faith, do we have the same willingness to trade everything for the sake of Christ?

The man who found the treasure didn’t hesitate—he joyfully sold everything. The merchant who found the pearl didn’t bargain—he gave up everything without regret. Their actions show us that when we truly encounter Christ, we don’t see our sacrifices as losses but as necessary steps toward something far greater.

The Ultimate Value of the Kingdom

We live in a world where value is often measured by money. But what Jesus offers—eternal life, true peace, and a relationship with God—is worth infinitely more than anything money can buy.

This parable challenges me to reflect: Do I see God’s kingdom as the most valuable thing in my life? Am I willing to let go of temporary comforts, financial security, or even my own ambitions if they stand in the way of following Jesus?

Discipleship: The Cost and the Reward

The greatest investments often require sacrifice. In the same way, following Jesus comes with a cost—but the reward is beyond comparison. Discipleship means surrendering our old ways of living, trusting in God’s provision, and aligning our lives with His will.

As I disciple others in personal finance, I also remind them that the best financial plan is one that aligns with God’s kingdom. Money is a tool, but our hearts should not be set on it. Our greatest treasure is not in our bank accounts but in Christ Himself.

Are We Holding On to the Wrong Things?

The man in the parable could have held on to his old possessions. The merchant could have kept searching for other pearls. But they recognized what was truly valuable and acted decisively.

Today, I ask myself: Am I still holding on to things that prevent me from fully embracing God’s kingdom? Am I willing to let go of distractions, fears, or even financial comforts to pursue something far greater?

At the end of the day, the wisest investment I can ever make is not in material wealth, but in wholeheartedly following Jesus.

Let me end this with something I often share at the end of most of my talks…