A man of God had a vision of heaven where he saw people receiving rewards. He was surprised to see a humble church member’s reward far exceed his own. God explained that her behind-the-scenes prayers had fueled his ministry’s success. That revelation humbled him and helped his perspective about kingdom service.
Friend, God does not reward equally (2 Corinthians 9:6). I think the picture that some Christians have about God is that of a “Father Christmas” who goes around town distributing gifts to people. Some think that God just wakes up and picks a random person to bless or reward. The sovereignty of God should always be approached with the balance of the effort of man (Romans 9:15-16).
God does not bless arbitrarily. His blessings are a reward of labours that people or someone connected to them have done (Hebrews 11:6). God is a rewarder. But He does not reward randomly or arbitrarily. He has a process and a system. He rewards justly. He won’t give what belongs to you to another person, and vice versa (Hebrews 6:10).
When it comes to sowing and reaping, we are admonished not to be deceived (Galatians 6:7-9). Especially in the church, a lot of people fool themselves. They become emotional when it comes to harvests and rewards. They never realise that they are dealing with a just God with a just system (Acts 10:34-35).
You cannot outsmart God or outplay His system. His eyes run to and fro the earth (2 Chronicles 16:9). He
sees everyone and knows everything. This should make you sober or excited depending on what you do and how you live. For those who labour genuinely and tireless, be excited. God sees you (1 Corinthians 15:58). For those playing truant in the kingdom, wake up and be sober.
God does not reward position and title. He rewards posture and service. Being a pastor of a church does not automatically qualify you for rewards if you are not labouring sincerely, fervently, and consistently. As a member of a local church, give your best to God. Your reward is waiting in heaven. Even if people don’t recognise or reward you, God does. He won’t cheat you.
‘Demola Awoyele
Lead Pastor,
Destiny Impact Church
Akure, Nigeria