09-Sep-2024 – How to receive reward from God?
Thy Father who sees in secret shall reward thee openly – Matthew 6:6
In this chapter, we see the way God has opened for us to receive rewards from Him. These principles are crucial for a practical Christian life. Let’s explore them one by one.
Take heed that ye do not your alms before men, to be seen of them: otherwise ye have no reward of your Father which is in heaven. – Matthew 6:1
From this verse, we understand that we receive a reward from our heavenly Father when we give alms. Alms refers to donations made to meet the needs of the poor. God teaches us that when we help the poor or engage in any charitable acts, we will receive His reward.
However, there is a specific way to receive God’s reward for our charity. That is by not boasting about it before others. We live in a world where everyone is interested in publicity. As soon as someone helps the needy, images or videos of the act are often shared to highlight the charity.
If an organization is specifically established for charitable work, publishing their activities is good. It helps people become aware of the work and can lead to more support, either by identifying needy individuals or contributing to the organization.
But for a believer, personally showing mercy and helping according to one’s ability is a command from God. “Love one another and bear one another” is a command given to every believer. When we follow God’s commands, we will receive a reward directly from Him.
But thou, when thou prayest, enter into thy closet, and when thou hast shut thy door, pray to thy Father which is in secret; and thy Father who sees in secret shall reward thee openly. – Matthew 6:6
Another important aspect of a believer’s life is prayer. Prayer is a vital way to communicate with God about various matters, including requests, petitions, and help for ourselves or others.
There is corporate prayer, which God encourages the church to do together. That’s why we conduct prayer meetings in churches. There are also public prayers, such as those seen in healing ministries, like the examples of Peter, Paul, and other disciples. However, that’s not what God is referring to here.
God is speaking about the personal life of an individual believer. He uses the example of the Pharisees, who pray in public to appear devout and pious. This kind of public display should not be our attitude when praying. For example, when you go to a restaurant and order food, there may be no need to pray loudly to show that you are a Christian. If your intention is simply to thank the Lord for the food, you can thank Him in your heart before eating.
Considering these two examples, I am reminded of another verse that summarizes today’s meditation:
And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; Knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ. – Colossians 3:23-24
This is the way God has appointed for us to receive rewards for all that we do. For me, I should publish these devotionals as if I am doing it for God, and then the reward for my work will come from Him.
Prayer
Dear loving Heavenly Father, thank You for Your love and grace. Thank You for reminding us today about the importance of doing things for Your sake instead of to please people around us. For everything we do, there is a reward from You. Help us to understand this and align our lives accordingly. I pray in the name of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, Amen!
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