Raspberry Rewards

Ok, Friends, today we are doing a little something different. On Friday, February 26, my very first (and possibly only) radio script will air on The WBCL Radio network (http://www.wbcl.org/) on the segment entitled "Fresh Perspectives". It is a short lesson that points out that often there are things in life that are difficult, but if you persevere, you might see the rewards. The devotion centered on ministry, but really it applies to anything in life that is sometimes difficult: parenting, marriage, working toward a career or personal goal, exercise--you name it. The saying goes, "You get what you pay for." That is true with a lot of things. If you are willing to put forth the effort, often you will be encouraged by the results. So, read on!

THOUGHT FOR THE DAY: “But you, take courage! Do not let your hands be weak, for your work shall be rewarded.” 2 Chronicles 15:7 (ESV)


The blood; the sweat; the tears. Picking raspberries is not one of my favorite things to do. The bugs, the heat, and the thorns all combine to make one question the sanity of it all. However, fresh raspberry cream pie makes a mighty fine reward.


Often, that’s how it is with ministry. Crying babies, cantankerous teenagers, or ungrateful adult Sunday school members cause us to wonder why we give up our time, treasure or talent to minister to those around us. But then come the rewards. The young mother praying at the altar while you rock her crying baby down the hall. Awestruck teenagers reporting on the life-changing missions trip made possible by your donation. The struggling class member who, with tears in his eyes, thanks you for taking the time to prepare and teach a lesson that was just what he needed to hear. God will always reward our faithful service to others. And sometimes he even lets us glimpse it while we’re still here on earth.



Join me on Friday when we explore Getting Into Character by looking at The Intuitive.