What do you think of when you hear the word reward?
In the natural, we appreciate a promotion for a job well done. A trophy for a strived accomplishment. A diploma for hard work achieved. . . and the list goes on. These rewards are well deserved. However for a believer this earthly praise or treasure is not the ultimate reward in life.
Recently, I read this quote: Our hereafter is determined by what we are after here.
Phew, what a thought provoking statement. Is our greatest reward seeking God in the secret place of His presence? Because, Hebrews 11:6 tells us from The Passion Translation, Without faith living within us it would be impossible to please God. For we come to God in faith knowing that He is real and that He rewards the faith of those who give all their passion and strength into seeking Him.
Not only will you be rewarded in this life for seeking Him, but in the life to come for all eternity.
As King David was giving his farewell instructions to his son, Solomon, in 1 Chronicles 28:9, he encouraged him in these three areas, which we would be wise to heed as well.
Three Rewards of Seeking After Him
- Know God
As you and I come to know the heart of God in a deeper way, His will is going to collide with your will as you walk out the plans He has for you.
Reward: Peace comes from understanding the heart of God
2. Serve Him
He has entrusted so much to us through the power of His Holy Spirit. We serve Him by being obedient to what He asks of us. It may be a small deed for another, a decision made to increase His awareness, or a follow through with a dream He has placed in your heart. No matter what it may be, serve Him with your whole heart and a willing mind.
Reward: Joy comes from a deep commitment to follow His call
3. Seek Him
David tells Solomon, if you seek Him, He will let you find Him. This is the greatest hide-and-seek game you will embark on in your life. We seek Him by: prayer, the reading of His Word, and commitment to living a righteous life – not a perfect life, but a devoted and virtuous life.
Reward: In His presence is fullness of joy (Psalm 16:11)
As for you, my son Solomon, know the God of your father, and serve Him with a whole heart and a willing mind; for the Lord searches all hearts, and understands every intent of the thoughts. If you seek Him, He will let you find Him; but if you forsake Him, He will reject you forever.
1 Chronicles 28:9 (NASB)
So are these the things you are after here and now?
- Experiencing peace of mind
- Having a giving and generous heart
- Living a joyful life doing whatever God asks you to do
It’s about giving without asking, appreciating unexpected blessing, finding good in others, and discovering contentment in all situations.
The rewards that come from God far outweigh the rewards that come from striving after meaningless vanity.
Journeying with Him,