Have you ever wondered what rewards await those who live faithfully and obediently?
What if I told you that Matthew, in his gospel, highlights ten incredible rewards that can be attained through the joy of obedience?
These rewards are not mere material possessions or fleeting experiences, but spiritual treasures that bring lasting fulfillment and joy.
In this article, we will journey through Matthew’s gospel to discover the profound rewards that await the faithful. From the entry into the kingdom of heaven to divine intimacy with God, each promise holds a key to experiencing a more abundant, purposeful, and joyful life.
So, are you ready to explore the depths of spiritual richness found in the joy of obedience? Let’s dive in and uncover the extraordinary rewards that Matthew promises to those who faithfully follow God’s will.
Entry into the Kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 7:21)
As Matthew reveals in his gospel, entry into the kingdom of heaven is not granted solely based on one’s deeds. Instead, it requires obedience to God’s will and alignment with His divine plan.
Matthew 7:21 states, “Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.” This verse emphasizes the importance of obedience as a criterion for attaining eternal life in the kingdom of heaven.
Obedience goes beyond simply following a set of rules or fulfilling external obligations. It is a response rooted in love and a deep desire to align one’s life with God’s purposes. It involves surrendering our own will and embracing God’s will as the guiding principle for our actions.
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven.”
In embracing obedience, we recognize that our lives are not our own, but rather a gift from God. When we surrender control and submit to His will, we enter into a loving and intimate relationship with Him. This obedience is an expression of trust and faith in God’s wisdom and goodness.
To illustrate this concept, Jesus often used parables and analogies. In Matthew 7:24-27, Jesus compares those who hear His words and put them into practice to wise builders who build their houses on a solid foundation.
This foundation represents a life of obedience to God’s will, ensuring stability, security, and a firm footing in the kingdom of heaven.
| Benefits of Obedience: | Scripture References: |
|---|---|
| Assurance of entry into the kingdom of heaven | Matthew 7:21 |
| Deepened relationship with God | John 14:21 |
| Guidance and direction in life | Psalm 32:8 |
| Blessings and favor from God | Deuteronomy 28:2-8 |
| Inner peace and contentment | Isaiah 48:18 |
By embracing obedience and aligning our lives with God’s will, we not only secure our entry into the kingdom of heaven but also experience the abundant blessings that flow from a life surrendered to Him.
Receiving Guidance (Matthew 7:7-8)
If you desire guidance and clarity in your life, aligning your actions with God’s will is key. In Matthew 7:7-8, Jesus assures us that if we ask, seek, and knock, we will receive answers, find what we’re looking for, and have doors opened for us. Let’s explore the profound promise of receiving guidance and how it can transform our lives.
“Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened.” – Matthew 7:7-8
When we align our actions with God’s will, we position ourselves to receive the guidance we need to navigate life’s challenges and make wise decisions. Just like a loving parent desires the best for their child, God longs to guide us along straight paths and reveal His perfect plan for our lives.
In Proverbs 3:5-6, we are encouraged to trust in the Lord with all our hearts and lean not on our own understanding. By acknowledging Him in all our ways, we can confidently walk in alignment with His will, knowing that He will direct our paths:
“Trust in the LORD with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths.” – Proverbs 3:5-6
Aligning our actions with God’s will requires surrendering our own desires and seeking His guidance above all else. It means actively seeking His wisdom through prayer, studying His Word, and listening attentively to the Holy Spirit’s promptings in our hearts.
When we align ourselves with God, He grants us the discernment and clarity we need to make choices that honor Him.
Receiving guidance from God is not limited to big decisions or major life events. It encompasses every aspect of our lives, from the mundane to the extraordinary. By seeking His will in even the smallest matters, we invite His guidance into every area of our lives and experience His faithfulness.
As we obey God’s commands and walk in alignment with His will, He blesses us with the gift of guidance. In times of confusion or uncertainty, we can trust that He will provide the clarity we need to navigate our path.
Our actions aligning with God’s will create a deep connection with Him, fostering a relationship in which we can confidently seek His guidance and experience His presence in our lives.
Remember, the promise of receiving guidance is not just for a select few, but for all who earnestly seek God’s will. The path to receiving guidance starts with aligning your actions with God’s desires and surrendering your plans to His perfect purpose. So ask, seek, and knock, knowing that God eagerly awaits to guide you.
| Benefits of Receiving Guidance: | Bible Verses |
|---|---|
| Clarity in decision-making | Matthew 7:7-8, Proverbs 3:5-6 |
| Divine wisdom and guidance | Proverbs 2:6, James 1:5 |
| Protection from harmful choices | Psalm 32:8, Proverbs 16:9 |
| Peace and confidence in uncertain times | Isaiah 30:21, John 16:13 |
| Alignment with God’s perfect plan | Jeremiah 29:11, Romans 12:2 |
The path to guidance begins with aligning your actions with God’s will
- Seek God’s wisdom through prayer and studying His Word
- Listen attentively to the Holy Spirit’s promptings
- Trust in the Lord with all your heart, lean not on your own understanding
- Acknowledge God in all your ways
By aligning your actions with God’s will and seeking His guidance, you open yourself up to a life filled with clarity, purpose, and divine direction. Step out in faith today, knowing that God desires to lead you and guide you every step of the way.
Inheritance of the Earth (Matthew 5:5)
When we think of inheriting the earth, we often imagine power, authority, and dominance. However, in Matthew 5:5, Jesus presents a different perspective. He promises that the meek will inherit the earth, emphasizing the rewards that come to those who humbly obey God’s will and demonstrate gentle strength.
The concept of meekness might be misunderstood in today’s society. It is not about weakness or submission. Rather, it is about having a restrained power, a gentle strength that stems from a heart of obedience and humility. The meek are those who exhibit self-control and rely on God’s guidance in their actions and decisions.
This promise of inheriting the earth counters societal beliefs that often prioritize assertiveness, aggression, and self-promotion. Jesus challenges our preconceptions, inviting us to embrace a different way of living – a way that is marked by gentle strength and obedience to God’s will.
“Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.” – Matthew 5:5
Rewards of Gentle Strength and Obedience: Psalm 37:11
In Psalm 37:11, we discover further insights into the rewards of gentle strength and obedience. The verse states:
“But the meek shall inherit the earth and shall delight themselves in the abundance of peace.” – Psalm 37:11
This verse demonstrates the connection between meekness, inheriting the earth, and experiencing the abundance of peace. By embracing a meek and obedient attitude, we open ourselves to the blessings of God’s provision and protection. The meek find deep satisfaction and fulfillment in living according to His will.
Implementing this gentle strength in our daily lives can bring about positive transformations in our relationships, our character, and our impact on the world around us. Through the meekness that flows from obedience, we can experience the rewards of peace, contentment, and a deeper connection with God.
Let us remember that true strength is not found in forcefulness or dominance but in the power of meekness and obedience to God. As we embrace this unique promise of inheriting the earth, let us strive to exhibit gentle strength and remain steadfast in our commitment to living according to His will.
Fulfillment and Joy (Matthew 5:6)
Experience profound fulfillment and inner joy by embracing a hunger and thirst for righteousness. In Matthew 5:6, Jesus reminds us of the spiritual significance of seeking righteousness:
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they will be filled.”
These words inspire us to pursue righteousness with a fervent desire, understanding that it leads to a deep sense of satisfaction and fulfillment. When we yearn for righteousness, we align our hearts with God’s will and His divine purpose for our lives.
In Psalm 1:1-3, we find a parallel promise of lasting happiness for those who delight in God’s law:
“Blessed is the one…whose delight is in the law of the Lord, and who meditates on his law day and night. That person is like a tree planted by streams of water, which yields its fruit in season and whose leaf does not wither—whatever they do prospers.”
By hungering and thirsting for righteousness, we cultivate a deep devotion to God’s commands and teachings, allowing His truth to permeate every aspect of our lives. This commitment brings about an inner joy and contentment that transcends temporary circumstances, providing a steadfast foundation for lasting fulfillment.
When we prioritize righteousness, we prioritize our relationship with God and His standards of justice and righteousness. As we align our thoughts, actions, and choices with His will, we discover a profound sense of purpose, harmony, and closeness to Him.
| Benefits of Hungering and Thirsting for Righteousness: | Scriptural References: |
|---|---|
| Genuine fulfillment and inner joy | Matthew 5:6, Psalm 1:1-3 |
| Deeper intimacy with God | Psalm 42:1-2, Isaiah 55:6-7 |
| Alignment with God’s purpose and will | Proverbs 3:5-6, Romans 12:2 |
| Renewed strength and righteousness | Isaiah 40:31, Ephesians 4:24 |
| Harmonious relationships and just living | Proverbs 16:7, Micah 6:8 |
Cultivating a hunger and thirst for righteousness enables us to experience true fulfillment and lasting joy. As we seek to live in alignment with God’s standards, we are transformed from within, allowing His love, grace, and righteousness to shine through us.
Divine Intimacy (Matthew 5:8)
Contemplate the promise of being pure in heart, for they shall see God and experience divine intimacy. In Matthew 5:8, Jesus teaches that those whose hearts are free from corruption and impurity have the privilege of perceiving the divine presence.
Obedience plays a crucial role in achieving purity of heart, as it requires a sincere commitment to aligning our actions, thoughts, and desires with God’s will.
When we submit to God’s loving guidance, allowing Him to purify us, our hearts become vessels capable of receiving His divine love and experiencing a closer relationship with Him.
James 4:8 reinforces this concept, stating that when we draw near to God with purity of heart, He draws near to us, fostering an intimate connection that transcends human understanding.
Through divine intimacy, we find solace, wisdom, and a profound sense of belonging. By nurturing a pure heart through obedience, we open ourselves to the transformative power of God’s presence, allowing His love to flow through us and touch the lives of those around us. This intimate relationship with the divine brings comfort, guidance, and a deep sense of fulfillment.
Embrace the promise of divine intimacy by committing to purity of heart through obedience. Seek the presence of God, allowing Him to draw near to you and guide you into a deeper relationship with Him.
“Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God.” – Matthew 5:8
Peace Amidst Storms (Matthew 8:26-27)
In times of turmoil and chaos, finding peace can feel like an impossible feat. Yet, amidst life’s storms, there is a deep-seated peace that can be found through obedience and trust in God.
One powerful story that exemplifies this peace is found in Matthew 8:26-27. In this passage, Jesus and His disciples were caught in a violent storm while sailing across the Sea of Galilee. The waves crashed against the boat, endangering their lives and causing fear to grip their hearts. However, Jesus remained calm and undisturbed, peacefully sleeping through the raging storm.
Then he got up and rebuked the winds and the waves, and it was completely calm.
The men were amazed and asked, “What kind of man is this? Even the winds and the waves obey him!” (Matthew 8:26-27)
This incredible display of power and authority over the forces of nature showcases the peace that comes from unwavering trust and obedience to God. Jesus had complete confidence in His Father’s protection and provision, allowing Him to sleep peacefully even in the midst of a life-threatening storm.
Similarly, when we trust and obey God, we can experience a peace that surpasses understanding, as mentioned in Philippians 4:7. This peace doesn’t depend on external circumstances but rather on our unwavering faith in God’s sovereignty and love for us.
Trust in the Midst of Trials
During challenging times, it can be tempting to rely on our own strength and understanding. However, the key to finding peace amidst storms lies in our obedience and trust in God. When we choose to submit to His will and place our confidence in His promises, we can experience a profound sense of calm and security.
Trusting in God’s faithfulness helps us navigate the tempestuous seasons of life with resilience and peace, knowing that He is in control and working all things for our good (Romans 8:28). It is through obedience and trust that we can find solace, even when the storms of life threaten to overwhelm us.
| Obedience | Trust |
|---|---|
| Leads to a deeper connection with God | Allows us to relinquish control and lean on God’s providence |
| Aligns our hearts with God’s will | Enables us to surrender our fears and anxieties to God |
| Brings peace in the midst of uncertainty | Builds confidence in God’s faithfulness and goodness |
As we strive to obey God and trust in Him, we can find peace that transcends our circumstances. The storms of life may rage around us, but with obedience and trust, we can experience a sense of peace and security that can only come from our loving Heavenly Father.
Heavenly Rewards (Matthew 6:20)
When it comes to the rewards of obedience, the heavenly treasures should never be overlooked. Matthew 6:20 reminds us of the enduring value of investing in these eternal rewards:
“But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.”
These heavenly treasures go beyond earthly possessions and fleeting comforts. They hold eternal significance and bring everlasting fulfillment to those who faithfully follow God’s will.
While earthly rewards may offer temporary satisfaction, they do not compare to the heavenly rewards that await us. Storing up treasures in heaven requires a perspective shift, placing eternal values above temporary desires.
Just as a wise investor diversifies their portfolio, we too should diversify our investments, focusing not only on earthly endeavors but also on those that have heavenly impact.
Imagine laying up heavenly treasures:
- Investing in acts of kindness and compassion that reflect God’s love.
- Seeking opportunities to share the gospel and lead others to salvation.
- Living a life of integrity and righteousness, even when faced with challenges.
- Practicing forgiveness and reconciliation to build harmony and peace.
By prioritizing these investments, we align our lives with God’s eternal purposes, ensuring that our actions have lasting significance. Our heavenly rewards surpass any earthly recognition or material possessions, for they are built on the foundation of God’s faithfulness and grace.
Why focus on heavenly rewards?
Investing in heavenly treasures shifts our perspective from the temporal to the eternal. It reminds us that our ultimate goal is not worldly success or personal gain but rather the life that springs forth from an intimate relationship with God.
When we store up treasures in heaven, we set our hearts on what truly matters, recognizing that our faithfulness to God’s will carries immeasurable value both in this life and the one to come. It is an act of trust and obedience, demonstrating our love for God and our desire to align with His purpose.
| Rewards of Obedience | Matthew 6:20 |
|---|---|
| Everlasting fulfillment | “But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal.” |
| Enduring value | Investment in acts of kindness and compassion |
| Significance beyond earthly possessions | Seeking opportunities to share the gospel |
| Foundation of God’s faithfulness and grace | Living a life of integrity and righteousness |
| Surpassing earthly recognition | Practicing forgiveness and reconciliation |
By storing up treasures in heaven, we align ourselves with God’s eternal plan. We lay hold of the rewards that go beyond this world, ensuring that our lives echo into eternity.
Freedom from Bondage (Matthew 11:29-30)
Discover the profound promise of freedom from bondage in Matthew 11:29-30, where Jesus invites all who are weary and burdened to take His yoke upon them. Through obedience and surrender to His teachings, you can experience liberation from the chains that bind you.
In these verses, Jesus reveals that His yoke is easy and His burden is light. By following His ways and submitting to His will, you can find release from the heavy weight of sin, worldly expectations, and self-imposed limitations. Embracing His teachings brings true freedom.
In the midst of a demanding world that often leads to exhaustion and restlessness, Jesus offers a rest that transcends physical relief. It is a deep rest for your soul, a rest that nourishes and rejuvenates. It is an invitation to find solace in His presence and experience the restorative power of His grace.
“Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” – Matthew 11:28-30
Jesus’s call to exchange our heavy yokes for His easy yoke is an invitation to live in alignment with God’s purposes and to find true peace. It is a call to surrender our own desires and submit to His perfect plan. In this surrender, we discover the freedom and rest that come from knowing and following our loving Savior.
Truly embracing the teachings of Jesus opens the door to a life free from the bondage of sin, guilt, and fear. It leads to a life filled with purpose, joy, and abundant blessings. When we walk in obedience to His commands, we experience His transformative power and the lightness of His burden.
Connecting with John 8:32
In John 8:32, Jesus declares, “Then you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.” The truth He speaks of is not mere intellectual knowledge but a profound understanding of His teachings and a personal relationship with Him. The truth that liberates is found in fully embracing His message of love, grace, and obedience.
By living in obedience to the truth found in the words of Jesus, you can experience a freedom that surpasses all understanding. It is a freedom that breaks the chains of sin, shame, and bondage. It is a freedom that allows you to walk in the fullness of God’s love and purpose for your life.
As you meditate on Matthew 11:29-30 and John 8:32, let these powerful promises remind you that freedom from bondage is available to you through Christ. Allow His easy yoke and light burden to guide your steps and bring you into a life of true liberation and rest.
Protection and Care (Matthew 6:25-34)
When we choose to prioritize God’s kingdom and align our lives with His will, we open ourselves up to a divine protection and care that surpasses all understanding. In Matthew 6:25-34, Jesus reassures us that as we seek first the kingdom of God, our needs will be met and our anxieties will be relieved.
It’s natural to worry about our provisions and security, but Jesus reminds us of the futility of such worries. He encourages us to look at the birds of the air, who do not sow or reap, yet our heavenly Father feeds them. We, as God’s beloved children, are of much greater value to Him than the birds.
By placing our trust in God and prioritizing His kingdom, we shift our focus from material concerns to spiritual priorities. We recognize that our lives are in the hands of a loving and faithful God who is always watching over us.
“Therefore I tell you, do not be anxious about your life, what you will eat or what you will drink, nor about your body, what you will put on… But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
– Matthew 6:25, 33 (ESV)
When we prioritize God’s kingdom, we align ourselves with His divine provision. We can trust that our Heavenly Father knows our needs and will supply them abundantly. Our obedience and faithfulness open the doors for God’s protection and care to manifest in our lives.
Provision and Prioritizing God’s Kingdom
Provision and care are not rewards we earn through our own efforts but gifts given to us as we prioritize God’s kingdom and trust in His faithfulness. Nevertheless, prioritizing God’s kingdom requires a conscious decision to place God above all else and acknowledge His lordship over our lives.
As we seek God’s kingdom and obey His commands, we experience His provision in every area of our lives. Whether it’s our physical needs, emotional well-being, or spiritual growth, God’s care encompasses all aspects of our existence.
It’s important to note that prioritizing God’s kingdom does not insulate us from challenges or hardships. However, it does provide us with the reassurance that God is with us every step of the way, guiding and protecting us through every storm.
Trusting in God’s Protection
Trusting in God’s protection requires us to let go of our fears and anxieties and place our confidence in Him. It involves surrendering our control and recognizing that God’s plans for us are greater than anything we could imagine.
When we prioritize God’s kingdom, we no longer carry the burdens of the world on our shoulders. Instead, we cast our cares upon Him, knowing that He is attentive to our needs and will care for us in ways that we cannot comprehend.
We can find comfort and solace in the words of Psalm 91:1-16, which further reinforces the concept of God’s protection and care. This psalm reminds us that those who dwell in the shelter of the Most High will find refuge under His wings.
“He will cover you with his pinions, and under his wings you will find refuge; his faithfulness is a shield and buckler.
You will not fear the terror of the night, nor the arrow that flies by day… for he will command his angels concerning you to guard you in all your ways.”
– Psalm 91:4, 5, 11 (ESV)
As we live obediently, prioritizing God’s kingdom and trusting in His care and protection, we can experience a peace that transcends circumstances. Our anxieties are replaced with unwavering faith and the knowledge that God’s love and provision will never fail us.
| Ways Obedience Aligns Us with God’s Protection and Care | Verses |
|---|---|
| Deprioritizing material worries and focusing on spiritual priorities | Matthew 6:25-26 |
| Recognizing God’s sovereignty and trustworthiness | Matthew 6:30 |
| Experiencing God’s provision in every aspect of life | Matthew 6:33 |
| Letting go of fears and anxieties and placing confidence in God | Matthew 6:34 |
Fruitfulness and Prosperity (Matthew 13:23)
In Matthew 13:23, Jesus tells the parable of the sower, illustrating the different responses of people to God’s word. Those with a receptive heart, who hear the word and understand it, bear fruit and experience a bountiful harvest. This parable teaches us about the fruitfulness and prosperity that comes from obeying God’s word.
Just as a well-tended garden yields an abundance of produce, a heart open to receiving and obeying God’s word brings spiritual fruitfulness and prosperity. When we align ourselves with God’s will and follow His commands, we align ourselves with His plans for our lives, paving the way for blessings and abundance.
Just as the sower’s seeds fell on different types of soil, our hearts can also vary in their receptivity to God’s word. The parable reminds us of the importance of cultivating a heart that is receptive to God’s teachings and willing to obey His commands. When we actively listen and seek to understand His word, it takes root in our hearts, resulting in a fruitful and prosperous spiritual journey.
Obeying God’s word not only brings personal growth and abundance but also impacts the world around us. As we live out His teachings and demonstrate His love, we become a source of spiritual nourishment and blessings to others. Our obedience can inspire others to seek God and cultivate their own receptive hearts, creating a ripple effect of fruitfulness and prosperity throughout the community.
“But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.” – Matthew 13:23
The Promise of Prosperous and Successful Endeavors
In Joshua 1:8, the connection between obedience and prosperity is further emphasized. As God commissions Joshua to lead His people into the promised land, He instructs him to meditate on His law day and night and to obey it faithfully. God promises Joshua that if he does so, he will be prosperous and successful in all his endeavors.
This promise extends beyond Joshua’s specific situation and applies to all who faithfully obey God’s word. By aligning our actions with His commands, we position ourselves to receive the abundant blessings and success that come from walking in obedience to His will.
The prosperity and success mentioned here are not limited to material possessions or worldly achievements. It encompasses an overall sense of well-being, contentment, and the fulfillment that comes from living in alignment with God’s purposes. True prosperity and success are found in experiencing the fullness of God’s presence and living according to His divine plan.
By obeying God’s word, we open ourselves to the transformative work of the Holy Spirit, who enables us to grow spiritually and live fruitful lives. As we surrender our lives to God’s will and allow His word to guide our actions, we can experience an abundance of joy, peace, love, and spiritual growth.
| Benefits of Obedience and Receptivity to God’s Word | Scripture Reference |
|---|---|
| Abundance of fruit in our spiritual journey | Matthew 13:23 |
| Prosperity and success in all endeavors | Joshua 1:8 |
As we reflect on the parable of the sower and the promise of prosperity in Joshua 1:8, let us cultivate a receptive heart and commit ourselves to obeying God’s word. Through our obedience, we can experience spiritual fruitfulness, prosperity, and the abundance of blessings that come from walking in alignment with God’s will.
Scripture Connections: Broadening the Perspective
As we delve deeper into the rewards of obedience, let’s explore key passages from Scripture that further enrich our understanding of the blessings that come from faithfully following God’s will.
One such passage is found in Ephesians 6:8, which declares, “Knowing that whatever good anyone does, this he will receive back from the Lord, whether he is a slave or free.”
This verse reminds us that our obedience and acts of kindness, regardless of our circumstances, are not overlooked by God. He promises to reward our faithfulness with his abundant goodness.
Another scripture that reveals the connection between obedience and prosperity is found in Deuteronomy 28:2, where it states, “All these blessings shall come upon you and overtake you, if you obey the voice of the Lord your God.”
This verse emphasizes that as we align ourselves with God’s will, He lavishes us with blessings that surpass our expectations.
Lastly, we turn to Proverbs 3:9-10, which gives us a glimpse into the prosperity that accompanies obedience to God: “Honor the Lord with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your produce; then your barns will be filled with plenty, and your vats will be bursting with wine.”
When we prioritize God’s kingdom and honor Him with our resources, He faithfully provides for our needs and blesses us with abundance.