Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in Heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.
Matthew 6:19–20
Words: Benjamin Beddome (1717–1795). Published posthumously in Hymns Adapted to Public Worship (London: Burton & Briggs, 1818), number 319. The Best Portion.
Music: Kirk Ella, H. Ernest Nichol (1862–1926) (🔊 pdf nwc).
Alternate Tune:
If you know where to get a good picture of Beddome or Nichol (head & shoulders, at least 200×300 pixels),
Let the sinner prize his treasure,
I would love things above,
Yielding higher pleasure.
Sons of mirth your joys deceive you,
They are vain, will give pain,
And ere long will leave you.
Let men thirst for worldly glory,
Court renown, seek a crown,
All is transitory.
I shall still prefer my station,
Seek for peace, taste its bliss,
Free from observation
They who toil with pain and anguish,
To obtain earthly gain,
Soon will pine and languish.
Such the treasure I’m possessing,
Naught on earth can give birth,
To an equal blessing.
God my strength will still sustain me,
Though I’m poor, I am sure,
He will not disdain me.
May I feel increasing pleasure,
In His ways all my days,
Own Him as my treasure.