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Program D-7810
Colossians 3:23-24 tells us that if we do our work—whatever it is—for the Lord, we’ll receive a heavenly reward for it. Just think of the difference it would make in our lives if we were truly striving for God’s approval on our job.
First, we would be free from that driving need to be recognized by people. The praise that people give is very fickle and undependable. If we are truly seeking God’s rewards, then whether or not we receive earthly rewards will become less and less important to us.
Also, it won’t wipe us out when our boss doesn’t show appreciation, or when someone else gets a promotion we think we deserve. We’ll have that abiding peace and knowledge that God has a reward for us far greater than anything our company or manager could offer.
Finally, we’ll strive to do good work day-in and day-out whether it’s rewarded by man or not, because we report to Jesus. He has said that we can know we’re going to get a reward from him when our work is done with excellence.
When we’re working for the Lord’s approval and for his rewards, we’re free from being a slave to people. We no longer have to kill ourselves to try to get someone to notice us. We don’t have to try to be super-person in order to impress people. When we know we’re going to get our reward from the Lord, it matters less and less to us that people may or may not recognize our contribution. We’re free from that control, that need to please others in order to be acceptable.
God has rewards to give us. They are eternal. If we’re smart, they are the ones we’ll desire; they will drive our ambitions. I have a deep desire to hear my Lord say to me, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” I know my work has to meet his standards, but I know it’s possible to receive that reward. In comparison to that, earthly recognition loses its appeal and glamor.
Who and what are you working for today: People’s recognition or God’s?
