The Reward For Obedience

Psalm 112:1-10

“Praise ye the LORD. Blessed is the man that feareth the LORD, that delighteth greatly in his commandments.  His seed shall be mighty upon earth: the generation of the upright shall be blessed.  Wealth and riches shall be in his house: and his righteousness endureth for ever.  Unto the upright there ariseth light in the darkness: he is gracious, and full of compassion, and righteous.” (Psalm 112:1-4)

The person who holds God in high respect, taking pleasure in him will be greatly blessed.  In John 14:21-24, Jesus spoke to his disciples.  “He that hath my commandments, and keepeth them, he it is that loveth me: and he that loveth me shall be loved of my Father, and I will love him, and will manifest myself to him.

Judas saith unto him, not Iscariot, Lord, how is it that thou wilt manifest thyself unto us, and not unto the world?

 Jesus answered and said unto him, If a man love me, he will keep my words: and my Father will love him, and we will come unto him, and make our abode with him.  He that loveth me not keepeth not my sayings: and the word which ye hear is not mine, but the Father's which sent me.”

The person who loves the Lord and obeys him will experience God’s love in ways others do not.  He will have an awareness of God being with him and working in his life.  They will have a relationship those who do not obey will never experience.   The Spirit will produce the fruit of the Spirit in him, and he will have financial security and hope when others have none and his descendants will prosper. 

“A good man showeth favour, and lendeth: he will guide his affairs with discretion.  Surely he shall not be moved for ever: the righteous shall be in everlasting remembrance.  He shall not be afraid of evil tidings: his heart is fixed, trusting in the LORD.  His heart is established, he shall not be afraid, until he see his desire upon his enemies.” (Psalm 112:5-8)

That good man demonstrates the fruit of the Spirit in his life, showing love and concern for others,  and trying to help them by lending things they need.  He makes wise choices so that he doesn’t have to fear God’s punishment.    Because of his commitment, he will not be constantly flip-flopping on what he does, but will always be known for doing what is right.  Because he trusts the Lord he will not live in fear when things appear to be going badly, but will focus on God’s promises until he sees them fulfilled. 

“He hath dispersed, he hath given to the poor; his righteousness endureth for ever; his horn shall be exalted with honour.  The wicked shall see it, and be grieved; he shall gnash with his teeth, and melt away: the desire of the wicked shall perish.” (Psalm 112:9-10)

Because he has been willing to share, and give to those who are poor, his reputation for doing right will last forever, and he will be highly respected.  Those who do wickedly will be jealous of his rewards and avoid association, losing all hope as they see him rewarded.