Reward for Following Example of Christ

This morning as I study the word “reward” I am brought to The Beatitudes in Matthew Chapter Five.

“¹²Rejoice and be glad, for your reward is great in heaven, for so they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” — Matthew 5:12 (ESV)

Here Jesus is speaking to the disciples and guiding them through the rewards for following Him. The verse quoted above comes after outlining The Beatitudes themselves. Jesus points out blessings that come from living according to His example.

As I read through and recall these blessings I am reminded that these are not a sign of weakness, but a sign of follower-ship and dedication to the living a life like Christ. Being poor in spirit, mournful, meek, hungry for righteousness, merciful, pure in heart, peacemakers, and persecuted are all characteristics of Jesus and by no means characteristics of the weak. Jesus’ example is one of strength and resolve in the face of challenge. He was and is that which I should strive to be.

I know that I have had many opportunities to be like Christ and failed in doing so. Yet, there have been other times that I was able to stand with resolve as Christ. The latter is where I have to remember to dedicate myself to. If Jesus can stand with resolve in the face of the persecution He experienced, even to the point of death, I should stand with that same resolve as I deal with a couple of minor scuffles in my life, they certainly do not stand to the same level as those He faced.

I am blessed for my following of Christ. I may not be able to see it at all times, but I am blessed and should remember to take a closer look each day and in each situation. I have to remember that Jesus is my example and for following that example, I am rewarded. Not just with what I receive in heaven, but for the blessings that come for simply following His example. Be poor in spirit, mournful, meek, hungry for righteousness, merciful, pure in heart, peacemakers, and persecuted and be blessed.

What reward are you seeking? Are you looking for grand rewards here in this world? What if you simply followed the example of Christ and accepted the blessings He gives as your reward?