In our no-fault, self-esteem culture, many children's sports organizations give every child a trophy, even if the child makes little or no effort to play well.
Unfortunately, some Christians have started believing God also gives everyone a trophy.
Good works and effort have nothing to do with salvation. It's a free gift of grace. We can't earn it.
But once we start our walk with the Lord, we determine how far and high we climb. God rewards our faithfulness, and He doesn't give everyone a trophy (Luke 17:7-10; 1 Corinthians 3:9-15).
Some rewards are earthly, others are eternal. Imagine that...a reward that lasts forever!
God wants to reward us so he urges us to be serious about our faith and assures us He will reward faithful obedience and faithful use of whatever resources and opportunities He gives us (see passages below).
When I ponder this truth, it strengthens my desire to please the Lord (Ephesians 5:8-17), not simply for a "trophy," but because I love Him.
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Matthew 5:11-12: heavenly rewards
Matthew 6:19-20: treasures in heaven
Matthew 12:36: future judgement
Matthew 25: faithfulness on earth yields rewards in Heaven
1 Corinthians 4:5: future reward
2 Corinthians 5:1-11: our "fearful responsibility"
Philippians 2:12-13: serious about sanctification
James 2:14-26: dead faith
Revelation 22:12: Jesus brings reward
If you would like to read more:
Are There Degrees of Reward in Heaven? by Hank Hanegraaff
Are the Rewards in Heaven Permanent? by Randy Alcorn
Levels of Happiness in Heaven, by Jonathan Edwards-John Piper
If you'd like to do a short Bible study on this devotion, check out today's Bite Size Bible Study.
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I just wanted thank you for the time you spend on the Bible studies and devotions and for sharing your knowledge in such a simple and effective way. I appreciate that you don't worry about popularity or making people feel good, but that you boldly speak what God has to say on the matter. Your concise format helps those of us with shorter attention spans and makes it easier to remember. Thanks again and may God bless you and your family.
ReplyDeleteHi Heidi,
DeleteThanks so much for encouraging me. I'm so glad that the devotions are helpful. It's my pray to write things that the Lord wants me to write, so please pray that I continue to do that.
God bless you,
Gail
I have been in a deep, dark place lately. So much has gone downhill and I feel like giving up a lot. Your devotions help even though I let the devil keep from praising God and I have lost a lot of faith this past year. Thank you for your posts!
ReplyDeleteDear Aribi,
DeleteI pray that you will let God's love and comfort sink deep into your soul. And I encourage you to use God's Word as a "medicine" to heal your heart. I pray the Word will "dwell in you richly in all wisdom" giving you strength and peace (Colossians 3:16).
Faith comes from God's Word - His message of truth and love - So please read it often, memorize it and speak it out loud. He wants to heal your heart and bring you joy and comfort. (Romans 10:17).
When you are troubled, the Psalms are always comforting.
I will put you on my prayer list, Aribi.
In Christ,
Gail