If we're honest with ourselves, we all know how to paint ourselves in the best light. If we keep up the charade, we know just what to say to appear more successful or more spiritual than we really are. And although we may appear to have it all together—and we might even have our friends, neighbors, and coworkers fooled—God sees the heart.
In his first letter to the Corinthians, Paul described a coming time of judgment in which every believer will stand before the Lord and have their works tested. This isn't a judgment having to do with our salvation. That issue was settled once and for all at the cross: Jesus Christ ransomed all who call on His name—eternally imparting to them His righteousness by His blood. The judgment Paul writes about has to do with the works we do for Christ and will determine our eternal rewards.
Are you building for the glory of Jesus or for something else?
Builders who insist on giving God nothing but their best—the best of their resources, time, gifts, and talents (their gold, silver, and precious stone, so to speak)—their offerings will stand up to fire. On the other hand, those who are doing all the right things but with the wrong motives will have their works revealed for what they are—straw.
Are you building for the glory of Jesus or for something else? May God search your heart today, and may He empower you to live a life that brings extravagant honor to Him. For He alone is worthy!
Prayer: Lord, You are the author of every pure motive I have; You are the perfecter of my faith. All praise belongs to You. May I pour out myself as a living sacrifice and magnify Your name, for You have done great things for me! I pray in the name of Jesus. Amen.
"If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, costly stones, wood, hay or straw, their work will be shown for what it is, . . ." (1 Corinthians 3:12-13).
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