Category: What do you think?

Treasures in Heaven: Rewards for Faithful Christians

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JEFF TURNER

The Bible speaks often about the rewards God promises to those who follow Him faithfully. Jesus Himself told believers to gather treasures in heaven, where they will last forever. The Apostle Peter also mentioned a reward — an everlasting crown for those who faithfully care for others. One of the clearest messages about eternal rewards comes from Paul in 1 Corinthians 3:14, where he explains that anyone whose work stands firm will receive a reward from God.

Some people feel uneasy about the idea of Christians receiving rewards, believing it to be selfish or wrong to think about personal gain. However, this idea is clearly taught in Scripture. In fact, rejecting the idea of rewards means rejecting what God has promised. From the earliest pages of the Bible, God made it clear that obedience brings blessing. In Deuteronomy, He told Israel that obedience would lead to blessings, while disobedience would result in curses. This principle has existed since the Garden of Eden. When Adam and Eve obeyed, they lived in peace; when they disobeyed, they faced consequences.

God’s desire has always been to bless those who walk in His ways. These rewards are not only for this life but for eternity as well. And while we may receive crowns and honours in heaven, Scripture tells us that we will lay those rewards at Jesus’ feet, giving Him the glory. It is a reminder that all good things, including our rewards, come from Him.

the twenty-four elders will fall down before Him who sits on the throne, and they will worship Him who lives forever and ever, and will cast their crowns before the throne, saying,
“Worthy are You, our Lord and our God, to receive glory and honor and power; for You created all things, and because of Your will they existed, and were created.”

Revelation 4:10-11

The Blind Man’s Faith

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AMY TURNER

In Mark 10:51, Jesus meets a blind man named Bartimaeus. This man had spent years sitting by the road outside Jericho, asking for help from those passing by. Though he could not see, he could hear and speak. When Bartimaeus learned that Jesus was nearby, he immediately called out, asking for mercy.

As Jesus approached, He asked Bartimaeus a simple but meaningful question: “What do you want me to do for you?” While it might seem obvious that a blind man would wish for sight, Jesus did not assume his desire. This moment shows that God invites each person to speak honestly about what lies deepest in their heart.

Faith involves both recognising our need and bringing it before God. When we do this, grace is given in ways we cannot always predict. Even now, Jesus asks each of us to consider our true needs and to trust Him with them.

You lust and do not have, so you commit murder. And you are envious and cannot obtain, so you fight and quarrel. You do not have because you do not ask.

James 4:2

Is Jesus the Guide in Every Decision You Make?

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FLOYD ROGERS

We all make choices. We make choices in business, with family, in friendships, and in personal matters. A serious question to consider is whether those decisions are guided by God, who lives within those who follow Him. It’s important to reflect honestly: are all areas of our lives placed under God’s direction, or only certain parts while others remain untouched by His guidance?

Some people might claim that Jesus is either in control of everything in our lives or He is not. But the truth is, whether a person chooses to follow Him or not, Jesus remains Lord. Human submission does not change His authority. What does matter is God’s desire for each of us to acknowledge His rightful place in our lives and to allow Him to lead in every situation.

and that every tongue will confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.

Philippians 2:11

Balancing Burdens and Responsibilities

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JEFF TURNER

Sometimes, when reading the Bible, certain verses might seem to disagree with each other. Consider Galatians chapter six. In verse two, Paul encourages believers to “carry each other’s burdens,” but just a few lines later in verse five, he writes that “each person should carry their own load.” At first glance, this appears to be a contradiction.

While some passages are difficult for us to fully grasp, they are not in conflict. In this case, the two verses in Galatians offer different but complementary ideas.

Verse two reminds Christians to support one another through life’s struggles. This means helping friends, family, and fellow believers when they face hardships. On the other hand, verse five speaks about personal responsibility. Each person is accountable for their own choices, actions, and duties before God.

In simple terms, we are called to carry our own responsibilities while also being willing to assist others with theirs. Both personal accountability and compassion for others are essential parts of a faithful life.

Now we who are strong ought to bear the weaknesses of those without strength, and not just please ourselves.

Romans 15:1

No one knows means no one knows…

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AMY TURNER

Some people today wonder if we are living in the final days before Jesus returns. It’s a question that comes up often, especially when troubling events seem to match what the Bible calls the “signs of the times.” Some claim that these signs prove the end is near and that we can now be sure of the timing of Christ’s return.

However, it’s important to remember what the Bible actually teaches. In Matthew 24:36, Jesus himself says, “But concerning that day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father only.” This is a clear statement. No human being, no matter how wise or informed, can predict the exact moment of the Lord’s return.

While we may hope and even long for that day to come soon, claiming certainty about its timing goes beyond what Scripture allows.

But He said to them, “It is not for you to know periods of time or appointed times which the Father has set by His own authority;

Acts 1:7