Day 21: Rewards

Hebrews 11:6 (NIV) And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.

Fasting and seeking God go hand-in-hand. This was David’s approach as he pleaded with the Lord for the life of his child (2 Samuel 12:16). Moses miraculously fasted 40 days and nights as He sought God on behalf of Israel. All Israel humbled themselves through fasting and confession (Nehemiah 9). Anna the prophetess was always in the temple, worshiping, fasting and praying as she waited for the Messiah to be revealed (Luke 2:36-37).

God rewards people like this, those who seek him earnestly—sometimes in surprising ways. David’s child did not survive, but the repentant king gained deep insight on how his sin hurt God’s heart. Moses received tremendous revelation from God, including the Ten Commandments. Under Nehemiah’s leadership, Israel was renewed in a spirit of repentance and obedience. Anna was privileged to recognize the baby Jesus and speak to others about Him as the promised Redeemer.

We also should expect (sometimes surprising) rewards as we seek God through fasting and in faith. Perhaps we will understand the gravity of our sin against a holy God as never before. A revelation from the Scriptures may grip our hearts in a greater way. A deeper understanding of Jesus as our Redeemer may strengthen us to obey Him and tell others about Him. And who knows what the Lord might do in our relationships, finances and many aspects of our lives as we press in to know Him!

Prayer:  Lord God, we thank you for your promise to reward those who seek You. By faith we receive the blessings you long to bestow on our lives. Above all, we desire to draw closer to You than ever before and to worship and obey You as You alone deserve. In Jesus’ name. Amen.