Rewards

We are trained through experience to expect rewards as a result of our efforts. We work at our jobs and expect compensation. We play sports in an effort to win trophies, ribbons, and acclaim. We often do good with a thought as to what we might receive in return. God’s economy doesn’t work in the same way. He gives us blessings through His grace. Rewards come to us from God, not because of what we do,but rather simply based on who He is.

II Chronicles 15:7 says, “But you, take courage! Do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded.” The works that we do for God and in the power of God will be rewarded. So, don’t give up hope, but take courage from this promise of God.

Silver Refining

In an effort to remove impurities, silver refining is a complex process. It may use electrolytes and acids and/or heat. The goal is to produce pure and undefiled silver.

Psalm 12:6 says, “The words of the LORD are pure words, like silver refined in a furnace on the ground, purified seven times.” God’s Word is perfectly clean, refined, and free from any defilement. His Word shows us the way to be modest and decent people, free from acts, thoughts, and desires tainted by sin. Just as silver surrenders to the refiner, we surrender to God, allowing Him to remove impurities from our lives.

Opponents Come and Go

Opponents try to prevent us from achieving what we want to do. Opposition comes in many forms and at varying times. It may come in the form of a coworker who resists your efforts to finish the project assigned to you. Opposition may come through the betrayal of a close friend. Our opponent may be a financial setback that prevents us from providing security for our families. In every case, we must find a way through the opponent’s attack.

At the end of his life, Paul wrote, “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”  (2 Timothy 4:7) With power, faith, endurance, love, and wisdom from God, don’t ever give up fighting for truth, good, and God.

Immovable

Due to my age and weakness, many things seem immovable. Some pieces of furniture appear daunting to me, as far as moving them. However, I have never tried to move something that is truly immovable, like a huge mountain.

Psalm 125:1-2 says, “Those who trust in the LORD are like Mount Zion, which can not be moved, but abides forever. As the mountains surround Jerusalem, so the LORD surrounds his people, from this time forth and forevermore.” When we trust the Lord, He makes our ways secure. Then, He surrounds us with His protection so that we will not be swayed by the evils of this world.

Service Attitude

Soon after you walk into a business, you can tell a lot about their service attitudes. Do they greet you with a heartfelt and attentive salutation, or do they ignore you until you arrive at the register? Do they go above and beyond in serving you, or do they help, but only begrudgingly? God welcomes us with love and faithfulness.

Psalm 69:13 says, “But as for me, my prayer is to you, O LORD. At an acceptable time, O God, in the abundance of your steadfast love answer me in your saving faithfulness.” God answers our prayers with perfect timing because of His abundant steadfast love and saving faithfulness toward us.