InTouch 03-25-04

In Touch Daily Devotional
by Dr. Charles Stanley

March 25
In Touch Daily Devotional

Our Rewards in Heaven
1 Corinthians 3:10-15

The third chapter of 1 Corinthians contains a sobering message about heavenly rewards and how they are achieved. Here Paul compares his work with souls to that of a master builder. He says that Christ is the only foundation on which to build, but that each of us is responsible for the building materials we use on that foundation. He says we can build with wood, hay, and stubble or with gold and costly stones. Each man's work will be tested with fire in the judgment in order to determine the quality of the materials used. Paul then tells us that if our works survive the trial by fire, we will receive a reward. (v. 14)

In order to survive the fire, we must learn to build with inflammable materials. God deplores shoddy work. We will be judged not just by our work with souls, but by the quality of our work, no matter what our vocation. This means that we are to go about our daily jobs with the same diligence that we would show when serving God in spiritual matters. To do this, we must avoid things like checking in late, manipulating circumstances to our advantage, leaving work early, criticizing the boss, and using company materials for personal projects. This is a test of genuine Christianity.

Are we real with God? He abhors slothfulness and poor workmanship. He expects us to do our very best, and He has given us His Spirit to sanctify our efforts and provide the quality He desires.

To delve deeper into this subject and more, visit the In Touch Web site: www.intouch.org.

For a free online discipleship study from Dr. Charles Stanley, visit www.charlesstanleyinstitute.com.