Building for Eternity

MORNING

Read 1 Corinthians 3:10-15

Devotion

In this Plan, we have been emphasizing the future crown/prize/reward that God promises to us when we run and finish the “race” as disciples of Jesus. This prize is life forever with God and it is a tremendous incentive for us to follow Jesus and finish well. While our prize comes as a grace gift from God, being a disciple of Jesus calls for obedience and training on our part. We put in a lot of effort, but does any of this matter in the end?

In this Scripture, Paul suggests that if we build well, there is a further reward on top of eternal life (3:14-15). Now we need to be careful before reading too much into one Scripture. Some biblical scholars are uncomfortable with any interpretation that suggests an earned reward, so I am wary. But because what we do for Jesus on earth lasts forever, then our “building” (the good we have done, the truth we have taught, and the lives we have touched) will certainly follow us into the new heaven and earth. Our efforts will be there forever to honor God and to be celebrated by all. They will never be forgotten.

This does not diminish God’s grace. Eternal life is completely based on the work of Jesus, not our efforts (3:15). And because everything we do for God comes from His grace, ultimately God will get the glory for all our efforts and achievements. But how encouraging this is: the building you do with God will last forever. It makes following Jesus today incredibly significant. It’s a bonus of being an everyday disciple of Jesus. Our driving motive of course is to serve Jesus, but the results of our service will be remembered and celebrated forever. It all counts. We are building for eternity.

Prayer

May I build with truth and grace today, Lord Jesus. May my attitudes and actions reflect You. May my seemingly insignificant words and behaviors build on the foundation of Your gospel to make a difference that will last forever. Here I am, please use me, Lord.

Today’s Bible Focus

“If what we have built survives the fire, we will receive a reward.”

LUNCHTIME (or when you can make a moment during the day)

1. Meditate for a short time on today’s Bible Focus. Let it seep into your heart.

2. Look and see what is happening around you from God’s perspective and listen to see whether God is whispering anything to you.

3. Pray for any not-yet Christians God has placed on your heart.

EVENING

1. Remember: Repeat today’s Bible Focus.

2. Reflect: Reflect on the day and thank God for what He has said and done.

3. Repent: Check where you have neglected or disobeyed God during the day and ask for forgiveness and freedom.

4. Release: Name any concerns or fears on your mind and release them to Jesus.