To you, O Lord, belongs steadfast love.
Psalms 62:12 (ESV)
For you will render to a man
according to his work.
The idea that God will render to each one according to their works should not induce fear but rather gratefulness for those who follow Jesus. In this world, the principle that one receives what is just for their actions does not apply so well. Instead, the wicked and the negligent often prosper and get to enjoy the “good” things of life; even in ministry those who compromise often rise to popularity. And the virtuous are often marginalized, scorned and rejected. They may struggle financially all their lives and even find themselves unwanted in vocational ministry.
God encourages us by promising to honor us according to our work. He will reward virtue and he will not honor vice. “Knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a bondservant or is free” (Eph. 6:8, ESV). Much of this will come after Jesus returns, so we need to be patient. But this is one of the most encouraging promises of God.
If you find yourself unfairly marginalized for saying or doing the right thing in any area of your life then rest assured that God values your action and will make everything fair at some point. This is fundamental to his nature. Moreover, God’s pleasure in your virtue is the greatest possible reward for your virtue – it is greater than if your virtue had been welcomed by others. Your reward is coming.
