Oftentimes, at work, I simply go through the motions and take my job for granted. And then when the accolades don’t come, I wonder why not. I should always do my best, with a thankful heart, to show my thankfulness and appreciation for having a job. My motivation should be to do the best I can at all times because that is what is expected of me. It should not come from any desired reward or promotion. Those will come in due time if earned and deserved.
The same goes for my service to God. If I have obeyed God, I have only done my duty, and I should regard it as a privilege. Do I sometimes feel that I deserve extra credit for serving God? I must remember that obedience is not something extra that I do, it is my duty. This is not to suggest that my service is meaningless or useless, nor am I saying that God does not reward us. I must guard against unwarranted self-esteem and spiritual pride. It all has to do with my motives for obedience. Am I being obedient in order to collect a reward or accolades? Or am I being obedient because it is my duty and privilege to serve my Lord and my God?
God may or may not choose to reward me for my obedience, but either way, I know it will go well for me if I am an obedient servant. I want to be so focused on serving and obeying Him that I am pleasantly surprised if a reward comes my way. A blessing from the Lord is always a special reward. I’m so thankful to be a member of His family!
Luke 17:10 (NLT) - In the same way, when you obey me you should say, “We are unworthy servants who have simply done our duty.”