Chapter 65—The Place of Reward as a Motive in
Service
Repeatedly the Saviour says, “Many that are first shall be last;
and the last shall be first.” Jesus would have those who are engaged
in His service, not eager for rewards, nor feel that they must receive
compensation for all that they do. The Lord would have our minds run
in a different channel; for He sees not as man sees. He does not judge
by appearances, but estimates a man by the sincerity of his heart.
Those who have brought into their service the spirit of true sacrifice,
of self-abasement, are the ones who will stand first at last. The laborers
who were first hired, represented those who have an envious, self-
righteous spirit, and claim that, for their services, preference should
be given to them rather than to others. The householder said to the one
who questioned his right to give more to others than to him, “Friend, I
do thee no wrong: didst not thou agree with me for a penny?” I have
kept my part of the agreement.
In a subordinate sense we should all have respect unto the recom-
pense of the reward. But while we appreciate the promise of blessing,
we should have perfect confidence in Jesus Christ, believing that He
will do right, and give us reward according as our works have been.
The gift of God is eternal life, but Jesus would have us not so anxious
concerning rewards, as that we may do the will of God because it is
right to do it, irrespective of all gain.
Paul kept in view the crown of life to be given him, and not only to
be given to him, but to all who love His appearing. It was the victory
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gained through faith in Jesus Christ that made the crown so desirable.
He ever exalted Jesus. All boasting of talent, of victory in ourselves,
is out of place. “Let not the wise man glory in his wisdom, neither
let the mighty man glory in his might, let not the rich man glory in
his riches: but let him that glorieth glory in this, that he understandeth
and knoweth Me, that I am the Lord which exercise loving-kindness,
judgment, and righteousness, in the earth: for in these things I delight,
saith the Lord.”
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