Reward

Scripture

Matthew 19:29-30

And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or property, for my sake, will receive a hundred times as much in return and will inherit eternal life. 30 But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then. [*] ”

And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or wife or children or fields for My name’s sake shall receive a hundred times as much and inherit eternal life. But many who are first will be last, and the last first.”

Observation

1. God may ask us to give up that which is most important to us.

It is easy for me to say that God is first but to be separated from my children, grandchildren, and parents is a totally different thing.  Am I willing to sacrifice everything for Jesus and the gospel?

2. There is a promise that accompanies the sacrifice.

I will receive a hundred times as much reward.  This is a faith deal because the sacrifice comes first.  I have to give up before I can get.

3. The value system of the kingdom of God is different than the world's.

The last shall be first and the first shall be last.  Those who receive recognition on the earth have received their reward.  I want to receive recognition in heaven.

Application

1. This verse gives me hope.

I have left family, home, and ministry.  It has been hard but I do believe in the promise.

2. All of God's promises are backed by all the honor of his name.

I can act on his promises because I trust his character.

Prayer

Take care of my family while I am gone.  I place them in your hands.  I trust you.