People often think of desiring rewards as selfish, but believers know that heavenly rewards are given in recognition of a life lived according to God’s principles. Although these rewards are gained or lost based on our service to Christ, we never have to wonder if we have done enough to earn salvation. Our salvation is a free gift from God that we cannot earn (Ephesians 2:8-10). We can be completely secure in our salvation and in our place as an adopted child in the family of God. As children of God, we are His heirs (Romans 8:17). We are in God’s will to be rewarded. How do we earn rewards? Rewards are based on our level of commitment to Christ. Were we ashamed to be Christians or were we willing to be identified as visible and verbal followers of Christ? One reward will be the public approval of Christ. Other rewards will include levels of rulership and authority that will be granted based on our faithfulness to Christ. Special privileges will also be available to some Christians, but not all. How we live our earthly life will determine the rewards we experience in our eternal life.
We will be rewarded in spite of the challenges we had to overcome. Because of our commitment to Christ, we have the power to overcome sin, suffering, rejection and much more. Scripture tells us we face three enemies—the world, the flesh and the devil. These enemies cannot take away our salvation, but they can divert us from our purpose and calling. To defeat these enemies, we must depend on the strength and guidance of the Holy Spirit and remain steadfast in our love for Christ. Even in the face of opposition and struggle, we have no reason to fear. Christ has already overcome the world and we can be overcomers through Him (John 16:33) and in Him are our rewards.
Getting Started
1. People often leave things of value to those they love. What are some things of value God has left His children in His will?
2. Why do people sometimes feel ashamed to be identified as a Christian?
Let’s Get Personal
1. What is your level of commitment to Christ currently? Why do you think your commitment is at that level?
2. Which enemy is the most difficult for you to overcome—the pressure of the world, your flesh and sinful desires, or the devil? Why is that enemy a struggle for you?
3. How has your thinking about rewards been biblical or unbiblical? How will you now incorporate the idea of rewards into your daily decision-making?
Take The Next Step
1. How can you begin to deepen your love for Christ and strengthen your commitment to Him?
2. What steps can you take through the power of the Holy Spirit to overcome sin, suffering, the devil, and the world?
3. Want to go deeper? Take time to look at the following passages: 2 Corinthians 5:9- 11; 1 Corinthians 3:10-15; Romans 14:10-12; 1 Peter 1:17; Matthew 12:36- 37; Matthew 10:42; Ecclesiastes 12:13-14; Mark 10:28-31; Romans 2:12; 1 Corinthians 4:2; Colossians 3:23-24; 2 Timothy 2:12; Matthew 16:27; Ephesians 2:8- 10; Revelation 21:4; Ephesians 6:8; 1 Corinthians 10:31; Luke 19:17; 1 John 2:28; 1 Corinthians 15:58; Matthew 19:29; John 12:26; 2 Timothy 4:8; Revelation 22:16; Hebrews 1:14; Hebrews 10:35-36; Hebrews 9:15; Romans 8:17.
Renew Your Mind
“Whatever you do, do your work heartily, as for the Lord rather than for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance. It is the Lord Christ whom you serve.” Colossians 3:23-24