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Rewards and Treasures

My five year old son, Keaton, has been going through a phase where he is fascinated with pirates. So, it should come as no surprise that his last birthday party featured a “piratey” theme. So, this swashbuckling Dad led he and his fellow partygoers on a backyard adventure that ended with actually unearthing buried “treasure” for my lil’ buccaneer to share party favors from. How thrilled he was! Arrrrgh!

It is interesting to consider that God’s Word makes similar references. Of wisdom and insight, Proverbs states “ …and if you look for it as for silver and search for it as hidden treasure; then you will understand the fear of the Lord and find the knowledge of God.” [Prov.2.4-5] I’m reminded of this when I battle my early morning snooze button since treasure like this isn’t just lying on the ground to be scooped up nor is it waiting to be nabbed off the dresser as I hurry out the door. It takes time and effort to find treasure.

So fitting for our Lord to be a Rewarder. That’s part of who He is. He has great things in store for us. “But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.” God rewards those whose faith believes Him. Rewards? Forgiveness and righteousness secured by His promises. Treasure? Sharing the glory of God [ref Rom.5.1-2]. And there truly is so much more.

But, let us be reminded of Jesus’ words in Matthew 6. Here he repeatedly warns against self-seeking motives. Perhaps it is the equivalent of searching for treasure only to spend on yourself, but He condemns self-righteousness. Here, the Pharisees get it all wrong when they do charitable deeds to be seen, when they pray to be heard, and when they fast to be noticed. In each of their contexts, Jesus assures “they have their reward”. Yet He goes on to share a spiritual prescription for each instance, with the result being that “the Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly.”

So, let’s check our motives. Let’s make the effort. Let’s glorify God. Persevere, endure, be faithful, and pursue the things of God. Nuggets of truth, pearls of wisdom, and glorious riches of God await those who purpose to open His treasure chest. Onward me hearties!

—Michael Spell

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