The Reward

By:  Betty Predmore

These kiddies had a late night with lots of sparkle and pop. Now they are having a little trouble getting up this morning. They want to stay in bed when they know they have to get up for summer school. They are really not wanting to do what they are supposed to do today.
How many times in life do we have to do something we don’t want to do? How often is doing the right thing harder than you imagined? God never said doing right, living well, and being imitators of Christ would be easy. But He did say it would be worth it.

“Blessed is the man who remains steadfast under trial, for when he has stood the test he will receive the crown of life, which God has promised to those who love him.” (James 1:12)

No, life isn’t always easy. We are expected to do things that we don’t feel like doing. We are expected to act in a way that we often don’t want to act. There are days when we don’t feel as if we can even make a difference. Some days we don’t have the energy to put on that smile. Many days we feel as if taking that next step is just too much for our weary bodies to do. Our body gets tired, our spirit gets tired, our mind gets exhausted. But the reward is the crown of life. Who doesn’t want a crown? The reward is being a light to others. Wouldn’t you like to spread a little light into this world of darkness? The reward is having our Father in Heaven pleased with us. Like any child, we want to please our Father and make him proud. The reward is eternal life. There is nothing better than knowing we get to rest and worship in heaven forever.

Today, God may call you to do something you don’t want to do. You might have to pull those blankets away and get out of the bed you have nestled yourself into. Get up! Do it! The crown of life is waiting for you! That is the greatest reward you could ever receive!