When we are faithful in our work, do we think our work is blessed because of our faith?
‘For I know the plans I have for you, declares the Lord, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.’ Jeremiah 29:11
Is success the mark of a blessed Christian?
In an article on The Gospel Coalition, ‘8 Lies Christians believe about Success’ are considered. Among which, is the lie that God’s blessing is tangible. Too often, Christians believe that they are justified in receiving higher pay, a promotion, a better job and so on, because they assume God rewards the faithful in this way.
‘Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted.
Blessed are the meek, for they will inherit the earth.
Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.
Blessed are the merciful, for they will be shown mercy.
Blessed are the pure in heart, for they will see God.
Blessed are the peace makers, for they will be called sons of God.
Blessed are those who are persecuted, because of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.’ Matthew 5:3-10
Rather than physical and material blessings, Jesus reminds us that our blessings are of eternal value because we know Christ. Similar to the Jeremiah passage, God had promised blessing to His people if they sought after Him as God. To these exiles, the promise of the restoration of physical land was a great reward, but how much greater it is for us who have the kingdom of heaven!
Faithfulness does not necessarily equal material success. But faith gives us blessings that we can rejoice in now and forever.