I was reading the other day in Luke 15 and came to the story of the prodigal son. I got thinking about the son that did right. When his brother came back he was upset because a party was thrown for him, but he himself had not been given one. I believe the son that had stayed with his father was genuinely trying to do right, but had a moment of weakness and was envious of his brother. His father reminded him not to envy him but to be happy that he had repented. He would one day get his reward and it would be greater than what his brother was receiving at this time. It’s a reminder that we as christians should not get envious of the world or those christians that have fallen into sin. If they turn around and get right, be happy for them. Do not serve your Saviour for the praise of man. When you have put many years of service in ministry, do not get upset if it is never recognized, because your reward will come. It may not be in this lifetime but you will have great riches in heaven. One day the good son would receive his reward, he would inherit all that his father owned. That was better than a one time party his brother was receiving.
If you are backsliding right now. Stop! Turn your life around back on Christ, do right, and serve Him. You still have time to receive some rewards. If you are a Christian that has many years of service put into ministry, keep up the good work. If praise come your way, take it graciously. If not, continue to serve the Lord anyways and do not be envious of those who do receive it. Don’t look for the praise of man. Let’s look forward to the rewards in heaven, and hearing “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” from our Lord and Saviour.
