“Why do you pass judgment on your brother? Or you, why do you despise your brother? For we will all stand before the judgment seat of God.” Romans 14:10
February 21, 2024
One day every believer will stand before Jesus Christ to be held accountable for all our works. This is not a determination of whether we are born again or not. Disciples of Jesus are warned about wrongfully judging one another. Our works will be assessed for the purpose of receiving Christ’s approval or disapproval (1 Cor. 3:13-15). God alone has all the facts about us. The loss of rewards is possible (1 Cor. 9:24-27). What kind of faith-building contributions have we made to the lives of others (1 Thess. 2:19). There are crowns to be won (2 Tim. 4:8) in recognition of faithful service: God-pleasing leadership (1 Pet. 5:4), faithful endurance through suffering (Jas. 1:12). Healthy, Spirit- guided evaluation can keep us aware of our accountability for the words we speak (Matt. 12:36-37), our relationships- are there those we will have refused to forgive or those we have caused to stumble? Loss of rewards is not what we want. Am I using my spiritual gifts, material assets, and opportunities for serving others for the glory of God? A grand commencement ceremony is yet to come. How will we graduate? Will there be overwhelming joy at having been loyal to Christ much more often than not.
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“O Lord, Judge of my service for you. Keep me between the lines of obedience to you, mindful of the value of the time and opportunities you have given me.”