Heavenly Reward

I’m sure most everyone who reads this blog has heard someone say something like “if the Bible says it, I believe it.”  I’ve heard more than once.  The fascinating thing is there are certain Biblical doctrines that some of those same people say they don’t believe.  One such doctrine is Rewards.  Jesus Christ taught that God will reward believers for the good works they do.  That presents a problem to those who hold an egalitarian view of Heaven.  The concept of reward means some believers would end up with more than others if the quality and quantity of their works were not equal. 
 
If you believe the Bible is God’s revealed word then you have to embrace the concept of reward for good works because it is clearly stated in the Bible.  The language is plain. 
 
“And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work.” (Revelation 22:12 NKJV) The words ‘according to his work’ sounds like a merit-based reward. 
 
But without faith it is impossible to please Him, for he who comes to God must believe that He is, and that He is a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him. (Hebrews 11:6 NKJV) This says there is a reward for those who diligently seek God.  Diligence means making earnest or energetic action.  
 
Jesus Christ spoke of reward in the Sermon on the Mount:
“Take heed that you do not do your charitable deeds before men, to be seen by them. Otherwise, you have no reward from your Father in heaven. Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly.”  (Matthew 6:1-4 NKJV)
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Jesus Christ not only talked about reward but in this passage from Matthew 6 He is actually giving pointers on how to earn them.  Besides charitable giving the Lord also told us how to gain reward for prayer, religious practices like fasting and social functions.  You know, inviting people to dinner and such.  When I read these passages, I come away with the impression that God wants to reward us.  Being a Father, He wants to do good for His children.  He wants them to succeed in the things that matter.  I can identify with that because I’m a father and a grandfather.  I still seek out ways to motivate my sons to excel in what they do.