The Joy of Anticipated Reward

"That the proof of your faith . . . may be found to result in praise and glory and honor at the revelation of Jesus Christ" (1 Pet. 1:7).

Your future reward is directly related to your present service.

The joy you experience after your faith has been tested and proven genuine is largely due to your present blessings and assurance of salvation. But there's a future aspect as well: the joy of anticipating the reward you'll receive from Jesus when you see Him face to face and hear "Well done, good and faithful servant! . . . Come and share your master's happiness!" (Matt. 25:21, NIV). Peter described it as the "praise and glory and honor [you'll receive] at the revelation of Jesus Christ" (1 Pet. 1:7).

"Praise" in that text speaks of verbal commendation. To receive "glory" is to be made like Christ. Jesus is the incarnation of God's glory (John 1:14) and "we know that, when He appears, we shall be like Him, because we shall see Him just as He is" (1 John 3:2). Paul spoke of those who "by perseverance in doing good seek for glory and honor and immortality" (Rom. 2:7). As a result they will receive what they seek (v. 10).

Peter probably used "honor" as a synonym for rewards, which God will grant to all who faithfully serve Him. I believe those rewards are various capacities for heavenly service and are directly related to the believer's service in this life. Jesus said, "Behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to render to every man according to what he has done" (Rev. 22:12, emphasis added). Paul said, "He who plants and he who waters are one; but each will receive his own reward according to his own labor" (1 Cor. 3:8, emphasis added).

God alone is worthy of praise, glory, and honor, but He will give you all three because you'll be in the image of Jesus Christ—sinless and fully glorified (1 John 3:2). Until that time, "watch yourselves, that you might not lose what we have accomplished, but that you may receive a full reward" (2 John 8).

Suggestions for Prayer

Praise the Lord for the joy of anticipating your future reward.

For Further Study

Peter spoke of a time when Jesus will reward believers. What do these verses teach about that time: Romans 8:18, 1 Corinthians 1:7-8, 2 Thessalonians 1:5-10, and 1 Peter 4:10-13?