Even if we had all the money in the world and all that money could buy, when we cross over to the other side of eternity what would make up our riches? 'True riches' are something else altogether. Whatever other riches we may have enjoyed on earth, if we don't have what counts in eternity we will end up among the poorest at that time! Jesus mentioned the phrase 'true riches' in Lk.16:10,11 where He made it clear that if God were to entrust us with true riches, one of the conditions is that we must have been faithful with the use of money here on earth. It's not about having lots of money, but being faithful in the use of whatever money we have. We go wrong if we think we can do what we like after we have given a part to God! Jesus referred to wealth as 'unrighteous wealth', possibly to indicate that wealth has the dangerous potential to make us unrighteous (1Ti.6:10). We will go wrong if we crave for or run after it (v.9).
Just because Jesus mentioned only money in the context of the secret of gaining true riches it does not mean that faithfulness is required only in the use of money. What about how we deal with the other parts of life, such as the use of time, abilities, skills, opportunities, etc.? Certainly we should understand that 'faithfulness' in every area of life that we deal with is an indicator to God about whether we can be entrusted with greater, more valuable responsibilities. We ought to be aware that God is watching over everything in our life, especially over our thoughts and intentions of our heart (He.4:12) to see if we are trustworthy, reliable people. Faithfulness is not only about being righteous but also in keeping ourselves accountable to God in whatever we do.
It is not difficult for us to see that what is precious in the sight of God – true riches – must be only things we can carry with us into eternity. Consider, for example, about how much we partake of the divine nature, become like Jesus. Does this happen automatically, or does it have to do with how we live faithfully seeking after His life? What about getting more and more insight into the things of God (some people call it 'revelation') (Ps.25:14;Mt.13:11)? Who are the ones who are going to be entrusted with spiritual ministries that can transform other people's lives (Mt.25:28,29)?
Seek and we will find. We can see how things will be if what we are really seeking after, even after we come to Christ, is really to enjoy this life, become wealthy or famous, get power or position, etc. Then surely we cannot have 'true riches', even though people who have no spiritual discernment may admire us or envy what we have. Many who appear to be 'first' (or on the top) here will be seen to be really at the end of God's list (Mt.19:30), even if we manage not to lose our salvation (1Co.3:12,13). What is the use, ultimately, if we 'gain the whole world' and end up with nothing of eternal worth? Let us focus on setting right priorities and being faithful.