When you hear the word reward, what do you think of?
The first thing that came to mind when I saw the word reward as a writing prompt was a specific Bible verse about rewards. I understand we’re saved by grace and that God sought and bought us through the blood of Jesus, but I’ve also come to know and understand that God is a gentleman who never forces Himself on us.
We need to seek Him too; We’re rewarded as we do.
Rewards such as: help, hope, joy, love, and healing all happen when we diligently seek Him. I learned the reward verse years ago while I was a new Christian. I learned it matters if we spend time with God so that our relationship with Him grows deeper and wider than when we first started walking with Him.
Rewards come now and later; rewards are for those who have put God first their hearts, minds, and lives.I want to encourage others to seek Him diligently too.
One of the greatest rewards for me is to find out I inspired someone to spend more time with God and with His word.
Now here’s the verse I alluded to:
And without faith it is impossible to please God,
because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists
and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.
Hebrews 11:6 NIV
Do you find it rewarding to pursue God?
God rewards those
Who put Him first
And choose only Him
To quench their thirst
God rewards those
Who seek diligently
His will and His way
So He will be pleased.
~ wlm
Rewarding blessings ~ Wendy Mac
Do you know what a zareba is? You can find out more on my blog post here: Zareba
You’re invited to read my recent post on HeartWings blog about being thankful during persecution: Thankfulness in Persecution
You’re also invited to view my podcast page on HopeStreamRadio where they’ve made it easier than ever to choose and listen to podcasts: Walking with Hope
This is an uncomfortable one for me, Wendy, because I often bristle at the reward mentality, yet I cannot deny that it is all over scripture. I want to believe I am laboring in the kingdom because I love Jesus and am deeply appreciative of what he has done on my behalf, but the “carrot” is always hung out there in front of me/us. It seems like such an ignoble motivation.
I’m with you, Damon, about being uncomfortable about the “reward mentality.” In marriage, for instance, we are “rewarded” with a more fulfilling relationship with our spouse when we seek to live out unconditional love and respect. We don’t do it for the rewards, we do it because we love God and love our partner. This is one topic that must take many Scriptures into account in order to foster godly motivations. Thankfully, God cannot be fooled by insincere reward seekers. We are to seek and love Him first.
I loved the way you explained that Wendy! Thank you! And blessings as you keep seeking Him!
Thank you and blessings, dear Debbie. 🙂