RECEIVING FROM GOD
Because you know that the Lord will reward each one for whatever good they do, whether they are slave or free.
Ephesians 6:8 (NIV)
Earthly rewards and accolades are wonderful to receive, but they all pale in comparison to those we receive from the Father. We've all seen famous people who revel in the glory, fame and awards, and it's all about them. I love to see people use their platforms to give glory back to God.
One great example of this was Tim Tebow. He played quarterback at the University of Florida and later in the NFL. He proudly displayed his faith visibly on his eye-black and also in praying before, during and after games. Tim knew that his earthly rewards were nothing compared to what his Father would provide, and that all glory was due to God, not to himself. He has since used that fame to start a charity that helps individuals with special needs.
As this verse says, God will reward us for the good that we do, no matter who we are. We don't all have huge platforms to reach others, but we do reach people. Our good deeds are an outflowing of our belief in Christ. We are not saved by the things we do; rather, the good things we do are because of how Jesus has changed our lives.
How we live our lives and how we treat others matters. Living for Jesus means that we are different than other people and help in times of need. We are called to help others and show them Jesus' love and compassion, no matter who they are. God sees how we do that, and we know that He will reward us, but that shouldn't be the reason that we do the good deeds.
APPLICATION: Look for opportunities to help someone this week. God puts people in our paths, friends or others, who need someone to come alongside them during a difficult or trying time. Take the time to help someone around you who needs it.
PRAYER: God, I thank You for loving me and for giving me the heart to help others. Help me to see those in need around me and to have the boldness to help them and share Your love with them. Amen.
"… Our Father in heaven…" Matthew 6:9b (NLT)
• What do You want to say to me today as my Father?
"… may your name be kept holy." Matthew 6:9c (NLT)
• What do You want to reveal to me about Your power today?
"May your Kingdom come soon." Matthew 6:10a (NLT)
• Help me make Your priorities my priorities today.
"Give us today the food we need," Matthew 6:11 (NLT)
• Is there anything specific You want me to do with my time or the people I'm around today?
"and forgive us our sins, as we have forgiven those who sin against us" Matthew 6:12 (NLT)
• Reveal to me anyone I need to forgive or ask for forgiveness.
"And don’t let us yield to temptation…" Matthew 6:13a (NLT)
• Is there anywhere I'm vulnerable to temptation?