Have you ever experienced a time when you were praying, seeking God, doing good deeds, going to church and more, yet you were struggling to get by? Have you ever been frustrated when someone seems to be living the good life despite godless actions and mistreatment of others? Have you ever heard yourself pray, “It’s not fair God?”
If the truth is known, many of us have probably been there at some point in life. We work and struggle to obey God only to watch others – who don’t give God a second thought – pass us by in the race of life. It can be a real challenge to remain humble and trust God when we feel overlooked.
The Apostle Paul understood this situation well. He also knew that the coin had another side:
“Remember, the sins of some people are obvious, leading them to certain judgment. But there are others whose sins will not be revealed until later. In the same way, the good deeds of some people are obvious. And the good deeds done in secret will someday come to light.” (1 Ti 5:24-25 NLT)
Paul told his protégé, Timothy, that some sins catch up to people right away, while others require more time before they are noticed. He also says that the same is true about good deeds. Some of them are noticed immediately while others are seen much later down the road.
The great news is that God sees what is done in secret and He has your reward all planned out. Don’t make a big fuss about the good things you do, or the publicity you get will be your only reward (Matt 6:2). Instead, thank God for helping you through the struggle; knowing that pay day is coming. Ask Him for patience and strength to keep going despite overwhelming challenges. Remember that it is not just getting through the tough times that counts, it is also about how we get through them. What good is it to survive the fight if we lose our character and integrity in the process? And what good is it to give up right before the reward?
As Paul wrote to the church at Galatia, “So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up. Galatians 6:9 (NLT)”
Prayer:
Father, we are eternally grateful that nothing escapes Your notice. You will not let the wicked prosper forever nor will You allow Your children to go long without an inheritance. Help us to stay the course of righteousness even when it appears that a short-cut would be easier. Bless my readers today and reassure them, that everything done in You will reap a good reward. In Jesus Name, Amen!