What Rewards Are You Seeking Now?

There’s something in human nature that loves to be rewarded for expressions of love, hard work, and good deeds done for others. The reward may be simply a sincere “thank you,” given from heartfelt gratitude. The gift of sincere appreciation covers the expenditure of effort freely given.

Long ago I was stranded when my car battery failed to start the engine. I waited patiently for someone to give it a boost, and finally someone offered that boost for a $20.00 fee, which I paid, but with mixed feelings. One was gratitude, but I also felt taken advantage of by someone out to make an easy $20.

Imagine the Good Samaritan telling the dying man by the roadside, “I’ll save your life if you pay me six months wages after you recover.” The kindness and generosity of the Good Samaritan was rewarded by knowing he had been instrumental in saving a person’s life. That’s what it means to lay up treasures in heaven where nothing can diminish it.  

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He will always make you rich enough to be generous at all times, so that many will thank God for your gifts which they receive.

~2 Corinthians 9:11 Good News Bible

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Choose to Control Your Weaknesses: God Will Help - Part 2

The search for happiness seems never-ending and elusive when dependent upon possessions and personal accomplishments. A couple sold their home and furnishings to live on a sailboat, a dream the couple had longed to do for years. It did however get a bit cramped when their adult children and grandchildren came aboard.

Some dreams pollute our moral and spiritual fiber, blinding us to who we are in Christ Jesus. The inordinate need for happiness can allow evil to infiltrate all we are and do. The mother of a musician pushed her son beyond his ability to cope with the pressure. His disappointment is expressed in these words: "We slave to gain a worthless treasure. A house without love is not a home."

Jesus encourages us to store up our treasures in heaven where they will be secure and safe. Treasures worthy of heaven are faith that produces works and deeds done in the name of Jesus, giving honor and glory to God. Jesus gives us joy and peace. These comprise the core for happiness.