Treasure Hunt Anyone?
Forrest Fenn owned an art gallery in Santa Fe New Mexico. He was a millionaire, but in 1988 something changed his life—terminal cancer. Not knowing how long he would have to live, he decided to use his wealth to inspire others to go on adventures. He packed a chest full of gold, jewels and precious artifacts and then hid them in the Rocky Mountains. He published a book called The Thrill of the Chase with stories about his life and most importantly, a poem that held all the necessary clues to find the hidden treasure, worth over a million dollars.
The interesting thing is that Forrest Fenn didn’t die as soon as he thought he would. In fact, he lived until September 7, 2020 (32 years after getting cancer).
ABC NEWS reported, “Hundreds of thousands have hunted in vain across remote corners of the U.S. West for the bronze chest believed to be filled with gold coins, jewelry and other valuable items. Many quit their jobs to dedicate themselves to the search and others depleted their life savings. At least four people died searching for it… he said he hid the treasure as a way to tempt people to get into the wilderness and give them a chance to launch an old-fashioned adventure and expedition for riches.”
Who wants to go on a treasure hunt? Of course we do, but before you plan your trip to the Rocky Mountains it will help to know that the treasure was found in 2020 by a medical student, Jack Stuef.
Let me tell you about a treasure you can search for and find. The Bible says in Proverbs 16:16, “How much better it is to get wisdom than gold! And to get understanding is to be chosen above silver!” Proverbs 8:11 says, “For wisdom is better than jewels; and all desirable things cannot compare with her.”
The Bible tells us that we should think of wisdom like finding treasure. Everyone needs wisdom. However much you have, you always need more. The pursuit of wisdom needs to be a priority in your life. Proverbs 4:7 says, “Wisdom is the principal thing; therefore get wisdom. And in all your getting, get understanding.”
Sometimes we are afraid to ask someone for help with something we don’t know or understand. God says we should ask Him and He doesn’t find fault that we don’t know and must ask. James 1:5 tells us, “ If any of you lacks wisdom, you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”
Begin to make it a habit to ask God for wisdom and understanding. There are many circumstances in your life that are out of your control – but you cannot let those circumstances define who you are and what God wants you to be. The Bible says that Jesus increased in wisdom when He was young. Follow in His footsteps.