Bible Reading: Malachi 1; 2; 3; 4, Revelation 22.
Memory Verse: “And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be” Revelation 22:12 (KJV).
When an athlete competes for an event, he expects to win and his effort is geared towards winning the race. This effort involves waking up early, training for both strength and skill and in some cases watching what he eats so that he remains heathy. All these are done towards the event date. Before the event date, there is usually a trial race to select who measures up to the standard. Any athlete desiring to win a medal must qualify by meeting the standard at the trial race. If he does not meet the standard he will not qualify to partake of the main event which means he would not have the chance of winning the medal.
Similarly, we are all on earth preparing for heaven. However some will not enter heaven while others will not only enter heaven but also win medals. Thus Jesus said in Revelation 22:12 (KJV), “And, behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to give every man according as his work shall be.”
That reward could be the:
Crown of Life (for those who endure temptations and overcome evil with good). Revelation 2:10,
Incorruptible crown ( for running the race to heaven and keeping themselves holy till the end) 1 Corinthians 9:25,
Crown of Rejoicing ( for winning souls) 1 Thessalonians 2:19,
Crown of Glory ( true teachers of the word) 1 Peter 5:4 and
Crown of Righteousness ( for earnestly expecting the coming of the Lord) 2 Timothy 4:8.
However, getting this reward is only available to those who make it to heaven. You have to be qualified to run the race before you can win the medal! Today is the last day of the year 2020 which has been a difficult year to everyone. That you have survived COVID 19 and other challenges of the year is an indication of God’s mercies towards you. How do you show gratitude for that mercy? By rededicating your life to him and living a life of obedience to his word. Remember the bible says in Ecclesiastes 12:13 (KJV), “Let us hear the conclusion of the whole matter: Fear God, and keep his commandments: for this is the whole duty of man.” As you do this, you are also qualifying yourself for making heaven and being positioned for receiving rewards for your works on earth.
Action Point: Rededicate your life to God and ensure you fear him and obey his commandments beginning from now.
Bro. Biodun Oyapero