Devotional: God’s Personal Rewards

John 14:1-3

“For the Son of Man is going to come in the glory of His Father with His angels, and will then repay every man according to his deeds” (Matt. 16:27, NASB).

“This is boring,” Kara says as she sits in the bible study class. “You are right, Mr. Moses the instructor says. Mr. Moses says, “You run track don’t you?” “Yes,” Kara says. Mr. Moses explains to Kara that she probably does not find the practices much fun. She practices hard because she hopes to do well enough that she can get a scholarship to college. Although practices are boring, when she graduates from college and gets a good job she will be very happy. Rewards come only when sacrifices are made.

In John 14 Jesus prepares His disciples to carry the Gospel to the entire world. They will suffer and their work will not be much fun. They will be comforted and empowered by the Holy Spirit as they do the work set before them. One day they will receive compensation for their work.

Before giving His disciples a final charge, Jesus tells the disciples that they will receive each a personal reward. ‘“In my Father’s house are many dwelling places.” “I go to prepare a place for you.” “If I go to prepare a place for you, I will come again and receive you to Myself, that where I am, there you may be also” (Jn. 14:2-3).

Prayer: Lord we thank you for calling us into your service. We desire to be faithful servants of yours. We believe that you are a just rewarder of those who seek you; that seek to do your will. Amen.