The X Prize Foundation attempts to solve the world’s problems by offering large cash prizes to whatever team can fix them first. Winning teams have built a spacecraft that can fly beyond the earth’s atmosphere twice in 2 weeks and cars that achieve 100 miles per gallon. Other teams are trying to land a robot on the moon, build a machine that can quickly sequence each person’s genome, and create a portable device that can diagnose a patient’s condition. These goals will most likely be met, for people will work hard for $10 million.
The success of the X Prize helps to remind me that God offers something far greater than money to those who help solve the world’s greatest need. God promises us . . .
The joy of leading others to salvation: Paul told the Thessalonians that he gladly worked hard amid intense persecution to bring them to Christ. He didn’t sacrifice to hear their praise or to “get [their] money,” but for the joy of having them stand beside him when the Lord returns (1 Thessalonians 2:5-6,19). Jesus “has ransomed people for God from every tribe and language and people and nation” (Revelation 5:9). What could be more satisfying than knowing you had a hand in bringing some of them home?
The most satisfying words you’ll ever hear: Jesus compared God to a man who entrusted his money to servants while he was away. Those who used his wealth to advance his kingdom were told, “Well done, my good and faithful servant. You have been faithful in handling this small amount, so now I will give you many more responsibilities. Let’s celebrate together!” (Matthew 25:21).
Do you believe these rewards are real? Then run for the prize!
NLT 365-day reading plan passage for today: Ruth 1:1-22
More:
Read Acts 20:13-38 to learn how Paul devoted himself to win God’s prize.
Next:
What sacrifices have you made to tell others about Jesus? What more might you contribute to the cause? Why?
Ethan on March 15, 2014 at 9:45 am
Thank God, I felt really motivated after reading this passage! Indeed, we should press on and reaching the goal of hearing the Lord says to us “Well done, my good and faithful servant.”
Roxanne Robbins on March 15, 2014 at 11:13 am
Good reminder to be faithful with what God entrusts us with, big or small.
sercher on March 15, 2014 at 5:54 pm
“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, and I have remained faithful. 8 And now the prize awaits me—the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will give me on the day of his return. And the prize is not just for me but for all who eagerly look forward to his appearing.” – 2 Tim.4:7-8.
May we all one day say the same!