Revelation 22:12
12 “And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.”
Though the apostle Paul is often celebrated as the greatest missionary in history, his journey was fraught with challenges. He faced more lashes and stones than honorary banquets, and spent more time in jail than in mansions. So, what fueled his perseverance under such harsh conditions? Paul looked ahead to God’s reward: “Finally, there is laid up for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give to me on that Day” (2 Timothy 4:8).
Similarly, Moses made a profound choice when he left the luxury of Pharaoh’s palace for the harshness of the desert. Why did he choose to endure such hardship? Because he considered the “reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt; for he looked to the reward” (Hebrews 11:26). Serving God granted Moses a vast storehouse of heavenly rewards, despite a lifetime of struggle.
Every act, word, and thought will be accounted for by Christ: “Each one will receive his own reward according to his own labor” (1 Corinthians 3:8). Our rewards are shaped by our motives. If we seek to glorify God with diligence and humility, our rewards will multiply. Conversely, if we seek only to please others and gain their praise, our rewards will diminish.
Rewards are not solely reserved for the hereafter. By following the principles of Scripture, we enjoy the blessings of obedience: “He who fears the commandment will be rewarded” (Proverbs 13:13).
When Peter reminded Jesus that he had left everything to follow Him, Christ responded, “There is no one who has left house or parents or brothers or wife or children, for the sake of the Kingdom of God, who shall not receive many times more in this present time, and in the age to come eternal life” (Luke 18:29, 30).
Serving God means that every product of our lives will be rewarded, either in this life or in heaven. God observes all our actions and has promised to reward us perfectly. Those who “serve the Lord Christ” (Colossians 3:24) will be rewarded on the day of judgment. The Christian who seeks to please God accumulates treasures that will never be devalued or depleted.
Photo Suggestions:
-
Heavenly Light: An image of a radiant light or a sunrise, symbolizing divine rewards and promises.
-
Pathway to the Horizon: A pathway or road leading towards a distant horizon, representing the journey towards eternal rewards.
-
Open Bible with Light: A close-up of an open Bible with light shining upon it, illustrating the guidance and rewards found in Scripture.
-
Crown of Righteousness: A symbolic image of a crown, representing the “crown of righteousness” mentioned in the text.
-
Serene Landscape: A serene and peaceful landscape, conveying the ultimate reward and peace that comes from serving God.
