1 Corinthians 9:25
"And everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown." NKJV
Would you run a race for celery? As foolish as it sounds, in ancient times there were athletes who would workout and train just so they could cross the finish line for a crown of celery leaves. You may laugh, but the same happens to this day. Every few years, we watch as athletes from all over the world jump, swim, and run to gain a medal. Now I can hear some of you saying, "Well gold is a little different than celery." Is it? Friend, when this life is over and you are before the Lord, no medal or riches are going to matter. In fact, that gold medal you thought was something special is simply Heaven's asphalt.
If you are a follower of Jesus and know Him as Savior, then you are part of this race to the eternal finish line. It can be difficult at times, but just like an athlete, you must train hard. The rewards are far greater than anything this earth may offer. As you step out in faith and begin serving and walking in obedience to His Word, you begin storing up treasures in Heaven. So friend, are you storing up heavenly rewards? Did you know that your act of love, giving or Word of Truth may impact the life of another human for eternity? This alone is worth the price paid, but God in His infinite love then credits our eternal account so that one day, He will present to us treasures beyond what we can think or imagine.
Life Lesson: We should live for eternal spiritual rewards. What we do in this life matters... forever.
Dear God,
Thank You for Jesus and Your salvation that comes by grace through faith. Because of this free gift, I have hope of Heaven and life abundant. Lord, help me to focus on the eternal things and live in obedience to You. Guide me as I seek to serve You and serve others and in turn store up heavenly rewards. May I be so heavenly minded that I impact this earth for all eternity. In Jesus' name, Amen.
