“Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” (1 Corinthians 15:58)
It’s easy to forget that this world isn’t your home, that you’re going to spend eternity with Christ in a home specially prepared for you, and when you get to heaven you’ll be rewarded for how well you fulfilled your God-given assignment here on earth. The Bible not only teaches this, it spells out the specifics. Here are three you need to keep in mind:
- Your greatest reward will be in heaven, not on earth. Yes, there are earthly rewards (see Mark 10:30), but God reserves His greatest blessings for the day when “each man’s work will become evident” and “he will receive a reward” (1 Corinthians 3:13-14). Always give God your best.
- Your reward will be based on quality, not quantity. We are impressed with size and status, but God is moved by sincerity. When He rewards you it will be based on what you did with what you had, and the “heart” you put into it. That means we all have equal opportunity when it comes to rewards.
- Your reward may be delayed, but it will never be denied. Think about that. When you’ve done what was needed yet you were ignored and misunderstood, remember, “Your labor is not in vain.” When you’ve done the right thing but received neither credit nor acknowledgment, remember, “Your labor is not in vain.” When you’ve served, given, and sacrificed, then willingly stepped aside so God would get all the glory, remember, “Your labor is not in vain.” In the words of Jesus: “Your Father, who sees everything, will reward you” (Matthew 6:4).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, thank You for all that You give me — by Your Grace and Mercy, as undeserving I am. Help me to always give You my best! In Jesus’ Name, Amen
Stay encouraged!
Pastor Mike
