" REWARD(S) "

Come on in,and welcome,this week we will be tackling the subject of " REWARD(S). I believe that each and every one of us are open to being rewarded for our accomplishments in life. So let's strap in and see just what the Word Of God's point of view on Rewards is. Now, those of us who know the Lord Jesus Christ as our Personal Savior are promised a reward. While we sometimes experience immediate and material rewards for our obedience to God, this is not always the case. If so, we would be tempted to boast about our achievements and do good only for what we get. Jesus said that if we look for rewards now, we will lose them later. Our heavenly rewards will be the most accurate reflection of what we have done on earth, and they will be far greater than we can imagine. Jesus turned the world's values upside down. Consider the most powerful or well-known people in our world - how many got where they are by being humble, self- effacing, and gentle? Not Many! But in the life to come, the last will be first - If they got in last place by choosing to follow Jesus. Don't forfeit eternal rewards for temporary benefits. Be willing to make sacrifices now for greater rewards later. Be willing to accept human disapproval, while knowing that you have God's approval. In the Word Of God, Paul emphasizes the spiritual rewards for those who give generously to God's work. We should not expect to become wealthy through giving. Those who receive your gifts will be helped, will Praise God, and will Pray for You. As you bless others, you will be blessed. Recognition and reward are great motivators that have two dimensions: (1) The Temporal Dimension. Living by God's standards may result in acclaim here on earth. (2) The eternal dimension. Permanent Recognition and Reward will be given in the next life. Don't be discouraged if you feel your faith in God going unrewarded here on earth. The best rewards are not in this life but in the life to come. Until Next Time... Jim,