We come into the world with nothing, and we leave with nothing

     1 Timothy 6:7 – "For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out."

        Life is a journey marked by a beginning and an end, and in between lies a series of decisions that shape not only our time on earth but also our eternity. One of the most sobering truths we often overlook is the reality that we come into the world with nothing—and we leave the same way.

        A newborn baby arrives without wealth, status, or possessions. All they have is the breath of life, which is a gift from God. Similarly, no matter how wealthy or influential a person becomes when they die, they leave behind everything they accumulated. This truth should not sadden us but should free us from the pressure to chase after things that don’t last.

        Also, the Bible repeatedly warns against placing our hope in earthly riches. In Ecclesiastes 5:15, Solomon writes, “As he came from his mother’s womb, so shall he go again, naked as he came, and shall take nothing for his toil.” Despite being the wealthiest king of his time, Solomon recognized that all the pleasures and riches of this world are meaningless if they are not anchored in a relationship with God.

        Jesus Himself reinforced this when He told the parable of the rich fool (Luke 12:16–21). The man had stored up great wealth but was not rich toward God. That very night, his soul was required of him, and all he had gained was left behind. The lesson is clear: we must prioritize eternal values over temporary gains.

The Danger of Materialism

        In today’s world, materialism is celebrated. Social media platforms, advertisements, and societal pressures tell us that success equals wealth, fame, and possessions. But Scripture paints a different picture. 1 Timothy 6:9-10 warns, “But those who desire to be rich fall into temptation, into a snare… For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil.”

        It is not wealth itself that is evil, but the love of it—the desire that places it above God. When we make material possessions our ultimate goal, we lose sight of what truly matters.

What Truly Lasts?

        Since we cannot take anything with us when we die, what should we be striving for? Jesus said in Matthew 6:19-20, “Do not lay up for yourselves treasures on earth… but lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven.”

        Heavenly treasures include acts of love, kindness, faithfulness, integrity, and obedience to God. These things don’t rust, fade, or get stolen. They endure into eternity and reflect the heart of God.

Living With Eternal Purpose

        When we live with the awareness that we brought nothing into this world and will leave with nothing, we begin to prioritize our time differently. We value relationships over riches, purpose over possessions, and godliness over gain.

        Paul tells Timothy in 1 Timothy 6:6, “Godliness with contentment is great gain.” When we live a life that pleases God and are content with what we have, we are richer than the wealthiest people who don’t know Him.

Practical steps to take

1. Simplify your life: Let go of the pressure to compete or compare. Embrace what you need and let go of excess.

2. Invest in eternal things: Share the gospel, serve others, support kingdom work, and live with integrity.

3. Be grateful: Contentment grows from a heart of gratitude. Thank God daily for what you have.

4. Prepare for eternity: Live each day with the end in mind. Store up treasures in heaven by doing God’s will on earth.

        You came into this world empty-handed, and one day, you will leave the same way. What you do in the space between matters more than what you have. Choose to live with eternity in view, and make your life count for something that lasts forever.