*This blog was originally published on March 28:2016. It has been slightly revised.
Let’s say that every Christian was paid daily by God for the work he did that day. He’d be paid for use of his time, talent, and treasure to help the poor and needy, love his spouse and kids, be hospitable, let in other drivers, defer to others, be kind, etc.
Well, He does pay us daily. God blesses those who obey Him (Leviticus 26; Deuteronomy 28; Matt 6:33; Luke 11:28; Eph 6:1-3). But those blessings are not typically in terms of money. They are often spiritual in nature (love, joy, peace, etc.).
What if God immediately paid believers in cash money? A person who was fully serving God might make $5,000 or more per day.
Would you be motivated to serve God if you were paid up to $5,000 a day? My guess is that you’d drop everything and make that your job.
Well, God pays very well, but He does not pay in dollars and much of our pay is not immediately. Much of our compensation is deferred into the coming kingdom. But only a fool lives for self. God pays better than Apple or IBM or Microsoft or Uncle Sam.
James 2:14 starts out with ti to ophelos in Greek. That means, “What does it profit?”
James 2:16 ends with ti to ophelos in Greek. Same words. Same meaning: “What does it profit?”
James 2:14-17 is clearly about profit and loss. Tell a fellow believer who is hungry and cold, “Be filled and be warmed,” but do nothing to help them, and you will not profit, nor will the needy brother. But if you give them food and clothing, the brother profits and so do you.
Christianity is a for profit religion. Living a godly life profits you and those around you. Living a self-centered life doesn’t profit you or those around you. If you were truly interested in what is best for you and your loved ones, you would generously give of your time, talent, and treasure in service of Christ.
Lord Jesus, I so want to hear You say to me, “Well done, good servant.” I long for Your praise and Your approval. Thank You for giving me the free gift of everlasting life that can never be lost. Please keep me focused on You and Your soon return. I want my life to count for You.
