Again we ask, what. is our motivation for being a disciple of His? Is it the money, the status, or the immediate gratification of pleasure? Or is it something else? Would you believe it is possible to give, to serve. and to love others simply because the process is more satisfying than not?

The other day we witnessed a man cleaning up after church long past the end of the last service. He voluntarily gave his time to pickup because he recognized the person who was assigned the responsibility for that day was not in attendance and no one else step up to the plate. As we walked by, our face broke into a big smile. His reward was more than most people are willing to wait for. He knows that his good, heavenly Dad takes very good care of him and will reward him accordingly. His reward may come immediate. His reward may be delayed for years. Or, most likely, his reward awaits him in the eternal kingdom.

As disciples, our emphasis is not on rewards. The emphasis is on godliness. Does God give so He can receive a reward? Does God love the difficult person (which we all are most of time) for a reward? Does God intervene on behalf of our prayers so He can receive a reward? We think not. God’s motivation is not “what’s in it for me?” His motivation is outward. His motivation is to build us up to become like Him. Not for His eternal salvation, but for ours.

No, our reward is not the motivation that makes us a disciple of His. Whatever and however God wants to reward us is His business. Our reward is found in Him, having a personal relationship with Him, and trusting Him with our life. We are not a disciple of His for personal gain, but for God’s glory.  Only when all people make Him central in their lives, surrender everything under His domain, and serve Him with all their heart, mind, and soul, will we have a world of real peace, prosperity, and happiness for ALL.

OUR PRAYER

Our Loving Dad and Lord, we thank you for redeeming us, forgiving us, and closing your eyes to our wasteful living. Thank you for blessing us with a rich, abundant life in you. We long for that eternal time when our training is complete and we are like you in every way. Until then, we thank you, praise you, and glorify you before all.

Help our motivation always to be pure in your presence. If there is anything that needs to change, be merciful with us and make the appropriate changes in our life. Let this life not be in vain, but let it shine for your glory.  We await our reward with you in heaven. Until then, provide for our needs as you see fit.  Thank you, Jesus.