“Man gives awards, God gives reward.” — Denzel Washington
The world applauds what it sees on the outside—trophies, titles, applause. But God sees what no one else does—the heart, the sacrifice, the faithfulness in the secret place. Man gives awards for performance. God gives reward for obedience.
Jesus reminds us in Matthew 6:4, “Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you openly.” Heaven’s recognition doesn’t come from spotlights but from surrender. It’s not about impressing the crowd; it’s about pleasing the Lord.
The Bible also reminds us that eternal rewards await those who remain faithful. James 1:12 says, “Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love Him.” And in 2 Timothy 4:8, Paul declares, “Now there is in store for me the crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day—and not only to me, but also to all who have longed for His appearing.” These are not earthly trophies that fade, but everlasting crowns that shine with eternal glory.
So Beloved, live not for applause but for approval—the kind that comes from above. Don’t chase man’s awards, which perish. Chase God’s reward, which lasts forever.
Pray with me:
Father God, help me to fix my eyes on the eternal crowns You promise and not the temporary awards of man. Teach me to persevere, to live faithfully, and to seek Your approval above all else. May my life shine with obedience so that one day I may cast my crown at Your feet. In Jesus’ name we pray, believe, receive, and praise. Amen.
4GIVEN 