Having a Christlike motivation

Bible verse and the Spirit of Prophecy insight

Luke 14:13-14

13But when you give a feast, invite the poor, the maimed, the lame, the blind. 14And you will be blessed, because they cannot repay you; for you shall be repaid at the resurrection of the just.”

In these words Christ draws a contrast between the self-seeking practices of the world, and the unselfish ministry of which He has given an example in His own life. For such ministry He offers no reward of worldly gain or recognition. “Thou shalt be recompensed,” He says, “at the resurrection of the just.” Then the results of every life will be made manifest, and every one will reap that which he has sown.

Ellen G. White – Gospel Workers p.512.2

Present day application

Let us be honest with ourselves, how often do we do things having in mind potential future gain? We try to forecast how to invest our time and efforts in ways that offer the highest chance of a return. Even some of the philanthropists of the world today are like the hypocrites which Jesus spoke about. They do charitable works to be praised by men. Be careful not to condemn anyone for having selfish intentions though, unless you have the gift of seeing into a man’s heart.

One might ask then: how can I continue to do good deeds when most of the time my work seems fruitless? I have been asking myself this question too. I often pray: Lord, please let me see some fruits of my evangelistic efforts just so it can encourage me to continue my work. I must say this prayer is hardly ever answered in a way I would like it to be. Nevertheless, we should not be discouraged by the lack of immediate and visible results. After all, many of God’s servants went to sleep not seeing them (think of martyrs like Stephen).

We ought to always look to the future time, that exceptional moment when a crown will be put on our head and we will hear the words: ‘Well done, good and faithful servant; you have been faithful over a few things, I will make you ruler over many things. Enter into the joy of your lord.’ (Matthew 25:23). Just remember that His yoke is easy. In this life, our reward for unselfish deeds will be a peaceful heart, healthy body and a joyful soul!

Take His yoke upon you and learn from Him!

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