Finding Your Great Reward: The Ultimate Source of Fulfillment

Is there a secret to true, lasting happiness? Many chase after worldly possessions, fame, or power, believing these will bring ultimate fulfillment. But what if the greatest reward isn't something you acquire, but a relationship you cultivate? This article explores the concept of a "great reward" not as material wealth or earthly success, but as a deep and abiding relationship with God, drawing inspiration from the biblical story of Abraham.

The Context of God's Promise: Choosing Spiritual Wealth

The story of Abraham, as found in Genesis 15:1 ("Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward"), provides a profound framework for understanding true reward. God's promise to Abraham wasn't simply a land grant or a promise of numerous descendants; it was a promise of himself. This sets the stage for understanding the nature of true reward.

Abraham's life demonstrates this beautifully. He faced immense challenges and temptations. He chose to prioritize obedience to God, even when it meant foregoing immediate gratification. Consider his refusal of the spoils of war from Sodom. This wasn't a simple act of piety; it was a conscious rejection of worldly influence and a profound statement of faith in God's provision. This contrasts sharply with Lot, who prioritized material wealth and subsequently faced devastating loss.

In this context, the "great reward" isn't merely the material blessings that may accompany faith. It's recognizing that the ultimate source of security, joy, and fulfillment stems from a deep, personal connection with the divine. It highlights the critical choice between earthly gains and spiritual riches, demonstrating that true security lies in trusting God's promise and not in material possessions.

The Nature of God as the Ultimate Reward

The sermon emphasizes that the "exceeding great reward" isn't limited to earthly possessions but points to God Himself—Jehovah. This is a reward with unique and unparalleled characteristics:

• Infinite: God's love, grace, and power are boundless, exceeding any finite earthly reward.
• Spiritual: This reward transcends the physical realm, offering fulfillment that goes beyond the limitations of the senses.
• Eternal: Unlike earthly possessions that fade, this relationship extends beyond time and into eternity.
• Ennobling: A relationship with God elevates and refines the soul, leading to personal growth and transformation.
• Soul-Satisfying: This reward fulfills the deepest longings of the human heart, bringing a sense of peace and purpose unattainable through worldly means.

This isn't simply about receiving blessings; it's about knowing, loving, and being loved by the infinite God. This intimate relationship transforms a person from the inside out, shaping character and leading to a deeper understanding of oneself and the world. It offers a sense of belonging and purpose that surpasses all worldly achievements.

Experiencing and Enjoying the Reward

The sermon further emphasizes the importance of actively experiencing this great reward. It encourages listeners not to be discouraged by setbacks or lack of worldly success. The message is clear: God's love and presence are sufficient compensation for any earthly loss.

It's easy to get caught up in the pursuit of external validation or material achievements. But the true "great reward" is found in the quiet moments of communion with God, in the unwavering assurance of His love, and in the transformative power of His presence. This isn't a passive experience; it requires intentional cultivation of the relationship. It involves prayer, study of God's word, and mindful reflection on His character and actions.

The Gift of Grace: An Unearned Inheritance

Finally, the sermon highlights that this "great reward" is a gift of grace, freely given and not earned through merit. This understanding removes the pressure of performance and allows for a more relaxed and genuine relationship with God. The focus shifts from striving to achieve something to receiving something freely offered.

This perspective fosters humility and gratitude. It acknowledges that our worth isn't determined by our accomplishments but by God's unconditional love. The ultimate source of joy and fulfillment isn't something we earn; it's something we receive. Holding onto this precious inheritance and finding complete satisfaction in God alone is the path to true and lasting happiness. This is the exceeding great reward that awaits those who seek it. The assurance of God's eternal presence and the promise of ultimate transformation into His likeness are presented as the ultimate sources of comfort and joy. This, then, is the true meaning of a great reward.

Frequently Asked Questions: The Exceeding Great Reward

Here are some frequently asked questions about the concept of the "exceeding great reward," based on a sermon interpreting Genesis 15:1 ("Fear not, Abram: I am thy shield, and thy exceeding great reward").

What is the "exceeding great reward" promised in Genesis 15:1?

The sermon interprets the "exceeding great reward" as not simply the promised land or numerous descendants, but God Himself. This means knowing God intimately, experiencing His love, and being loved by Him constitutes the ultimate and most fulfilling reward. It's a spiritual, not material, reward.

How does Abraham's life illustrate this concept?

Abraham's life serves as a case study. His prioritizing of God's kingdom over material wealth (in contrast to Lot) demonstrates the security found in trusting God. His refusal of gifts from the king of Sodom showcases spiritual independence from worldly influence and the understanding that true reward comes from faithful devotion to God, not earthly gain.

What are the characteristics of this divine reward?

The sermon describes the reward as infinite, spiritual, eternal, ennobling, and soul-satisfying. It’s a relationship characterized by knowing God, loving Him, and being loved by Him – blessings surpassing any earthly possession. This relationship transforms the individual, leading to a growing likeness to God and ultimately, eternal life and fellowship with Him.

Is this reward something we earn or receive as a gift?

This "exceeding great reward" is emphasized as a gift of grace, not something earned through personal merit. It’s freely given by God’s love and acceptance.

What if I experience setbacks or lack worldly recognition? Does this affect my reward?

Earthly setbacks or a lack of worldly success shouldn't discourage us. The sermon highlights that God's love and presence are sufficient compensation for any earthly loss. The true reward lies in our relationship with God, not in material possessions or achievements.

How can I experience and enjoy this reward?

Experiencing this reward involves cultivating a deep and abiding relationship with God. This includes prioritizing spiritual matters over material ones, seeking to know and love God, and trusting in His promises even amidst difficulties. It's about finding complete satisfaction in God alone.

What is the ultimate outcome of receiving this reward?

The ultimate outcome of receiving this divine reward is transformation into God's likeness, leading to eternal life and fellowship with Him. This transformation and the assurance of God's eternal presence are presented as ultimate sources of comfort and joy.