Legacy: Maximizing Your ImpactSample

God gives Eternal Rewards

Many believers celebrate the truth that salvation is by grace alone—but quietly avoid the reality that our rewards in eternity will reflect how we stewarded this life. Yet Scripture is clear: we will all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, not for condemnation, but for reward. What we’ve built on the foundation of Christ will be tested—whether it’s gold that endures or straw that burns.

Jesus Himself taught about reward with joyful anticipation. He told His disciples, “I go to prepare a place for you,” (John 14:2, KJV) and encouraged them to invest in heavenly treasure that cannot be stolen or decay. Even small acts of love—a cup of cold water, a private prayer, a quiet act of generosity—are recorded by God and remembered forever.

The testing of our works won’t be based on size, but on substance. Were our actions rooted in love? Did we serve with integrity? Did we invest in souls or store up earthly status? God’s rewards don’t contradict grace—it reveals His justice and generosity.

There’s no need to fear this future moment. Rather, we can let it shape our daily choices. Every moment you choose obedience, every act of unseen faithfulness, every dollar given for the kingdom—it’s not forgotten. God sees it all. And one day, He will say, “Well done.”

Prayer: Father, thank You for the promise that nothing done for You is ever wasted. Give me the grace to live each day with eternity in view. Help me to steward my time, resources, and relationships with love, integrity, and faithfulness. Let my life bring You glory, and may I one day rejoice to see the reward of a life well lived before You. In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Reflection Questions:

1. If your life were evaluated today, what kinds of “building materials” would your works be made of—gold or straw?
2. What is one area of stewardship (time, money, service, influence) where God may be inviting you to invest more intentionally in eternal things?