Isaac Boluwatise

The Reward of Faithfulness

October 26th, 2024

Scripture:
Colossians 3:23-24 – “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord… since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward.”

Reflection:
God values and rewards faithfulness. However, we live in a world where we often seek quick results and instant recognition for our efforts. When that doesn’t happen, we feel discouraged. We work hard, hoping someone will notice. But many times, it feels like no one sees us. The Bible assures us that nothing is hidden from God. He values and rewards our faithfulness, no matter how small the task.

Whether at work, with family, or in ministry, God calls us to serve Him with all our hearts. He also promises to reward faithful service with an eternal inheritance greater than earthly gains. This promise is far more valuable than any recognition we may seek here. When you feel unnoticed, remember that God sees everything and that your faithfulness matters to Him.

Reflect on areas where you are called to stay faithful. Have you felt discouraged because those who should do not appreciate or even notice? Take heart in knowing that God sees your efforts and values your faithfulness.

Stay focused on the bigger picture. The rewards we seek in life are temporary, but the reward from God is eternal. Keep working with all your heart. Your dedication will be recognized by the One who matters most. God sees and honours your faithfulness. Stay faithful. The reward is worth it.

Prayer:
Father, thank You for the promise of reward. Help me to stay faithful in all I do, knowing that You see and reward my efforts. Amen.

Action Step:
Take a moment to thank God for the gifts He entrusted you and recommit to using them faithfully.

Recommended Reading:
1 Corinthians 15:58; Galatians 6:9
The Joy of Investing in Others

October 25th, 2024

Scripture: 1 Peter 4:10 – “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms.”

Reflection:
We were created for community, and as believers, it’s our calling to share our unique gifts with those around us. There’s a special joy that comes from using our talents to uplift and support others—it’s truly wonderful and hard to measure.

When we invest in others, we truly embrace our purpose and share the grace and love that come from above. Consider the people in your life—your family, friends, coworkers, community members, and church. How can you use your unique gifts to make a difference for them today? A simple encouraging word, an act of kindness, or just being there to listen can brighten someone’s day. It’s often the small gestures that mean the most!

We often associate service with grand acts, but the truth is that some of the most meaningful service happens through small, everyday actions. Jesus taught us this by showing how serving others can be practical and approachable. Take a moment to think about how you’re investing in the lives of those around you. Are there opportunities for kindness you might be overlooking? Sometimes, it’s the little things that can make the biggest difference.

The more we invest time in helping others, the more we realize that life isn’t just about our own needs—it’s about sharing the grace and love we’ve received. There is something incredibly rewarding about witnessing how we can positively impact the lives of those around us. It fills us with joy and a deeper sense of purpose.

Prayer:
Lord, show me how to use my gifts to bless others today. Help me joyfully serve you and others and reflect Your grace in all I do. Amen.

Action Step:
Identify one person who could use your help or encouragement today. Use your gifts to serve them.

Recommended Reading: Philippians 2:3-4; Hebrews 13:16
Using Time for God’s Glory

October 24th, 2024

Scripture: Ephesians 5:15–16 — “Be very careful, then, how you live — not as unwise but as wise, making the most of every opportunity.”

Reflection:
Time is one of God’s most precious resources; unlike other resources, it cannot be regained once it is spent. That’s why the Bible encourages us to be wise with our time and to make the most of every opportunity to glorify God.

In our busy, fast-paced world, it is easy to fill our schedules with activities that may not contribute to our spiritual growth or to God’s purposes.

How are you spending your time? Are you investing it in things with eternal value, such as your relationship with God, serving others, and fulfilling your calling? Or are you letting distractions and lesser priorities consume your days? Time is a gift, and God has called us to steward it wisely.

Spend a few minutes today reflecting on how you are spending your time. Are there any areas where you need to improve? This could mean dedicating more time to prayer, Bible study, or serving God and others. It could also mean cutting back on activities that do not align with God’s priorities for your life.

How we spend our time reflects our values and priorities. Let us commit to honouring God with our time.

Prayer:
Father, help me to see time as a gift and to use it for Your glory. Teach me to prioritize what matters most to You. Amen.

Action Step:
Review your schedule and identify an area where you can be more intentional in using your time for God’s purposes.

Recommended Reading: Psalm 90:12; Ecclesiastes 3:1
Faithfulness in Small Things

October 23rd, 2024

Scripture: Luke 16:10 — “Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much.”

Reflection:
There is a tendency to overlook the little things in life, thinking they aren’t important. But in the Kingdom of God, faithfulness to Him in little things is a prerequisite for trust with greater things. Jesus taught us that how we handle small life responsibilities reflects our character and readiness for greater opportunities. Whether we show kindness to a neighbour, are diligent in our work, or serve in our local church, God shapes and refines us through small tasks.

We often want big assignments, visible roles, and significant impacts, but God asks, “Are you faithful with what you have right now?” It is our obedience in little things that builds a foundation for greater influence in the future. Look today at the seemingly mundane or insignificant aspects and tasks in your life. How can you honour God in these areas? Remember, God sees everything and values your faithfulness, no matter how small the task may seem.

Prayer:
Lord, help me to be faithful in the small things. Let me serve You with joy, knowing that You see my heart. Amen.

Action Step:
Identify one small task or responsibility today where you can be more faithful and diligent.

Recommended Reading: Proverbs 16:3; Colossians 3:23–24
Avoiding the Trap of Comparison

October 22nd, 2024

2 Corinthians 10:12 — “We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves… But in measuring themselves by themselves and comparing themselves to themselves, they lack understanding.”

Reflection:
Comparing ourselves to others is one dangerous trap believers fall into. When we compare our gifts or progress to those of others, we fail to see the particular path God has planned for us. When we measure our gifts or progress against that of others, we lose sight of the unique journey God has set before us.

In the parable of the talents, it is likely that the third servant compared his one talent to the wealth given to the other two servants and felt that it was not valuable enough to work for. Comparison turns our race into a contest, leading to pride or despair. Pride is feeling superior to others, while despair comes from feeling inadequate.

God does not measure us against others but instead evaluates our faithfulness and the use of our gifts. Every person has a distinct purpose, and our abilities are custom-made for the particular task God has assigned us in His Kingdom. By comparing ourselves to others, we overlook the joy and satisfaction of accepting our own path. Instead of comparing yourself to others, recognize how God has specifically equipped you for your task. Consider any instances where you measure yourself against others, and ask for God’s guidance in embracing the gifts and path He has given you.

Prayer:
Lord, help me focus on You and my calling and not on the gifts or progress of others. Amen.

Action Step:
Write down one area where you struggle with comparison. Commit it to God and thank Him for your unique gifts.

Recommended Reading: Galatians 6:4–5; Philippians 2:3–4

The Reward of Faithfulness

The Joy of Investing in Others

Using Time for God’s Glory

Faithfulness in Small Things

Avoiding the Trap of Comparison