Monday, August 31, 2009

August 31 devotional

Scripture

2 Corinthians 5:9-10 “So our aim is to please him always, whether we are here in this body or away from this body. For we must all stand before Christ to be judged. We will each receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done in our bodies.”

Observation

Some people think that everyone will have equal reward in heaven. That is not true. Believers will be judged by Christ and will be rewarded based on the works they do on this earth. Some people will have a greater reward than others in heaven. Heaven is a great place and everyone will be filled with joy there but there will be different levels of reward. The good news is that everyday you live is an opportunity to build your reward in heaven! Paul said we will receive whatever we deserve for the good or evil we have done. That means every time I do a good deed, I build a reward in heaven. I can major in doing good deeds and store up reward in heaven.

Application

Christianity is a lifestyle and not just a belief system. Christians should be people known for doing good works. We should be known not for just what we believe but our reputation should be built on our good deeds. I have an opportunity today to do good. I can become fanatical about doing good works. I get to determine my reward in heaven.

Prayer

My desire is to be please you in all ways. I want to do good today. I want to be known not just for what I believe but for my love, kindness, gentleness, and good works. I want people to see my love and to understand that my faith in you motivates me to do good. Empower me today to be a good representative of you. May I cause you to smile and bring you pleasure.