A Real Reward from a Real God

 Hebrews 11:6 (NIV)

… anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.

It’s easy to ignore God. Lots of people do it. Developing a relationship with God takes time and effort. You have to give of yourself and work on two-way communication. Sadly, developing a relationship with anyone is something few people spend their energy on these days.

Anyone who wants to hear from God about a particular issue must realize that God already knows what you need. And He is willing to satisfy you with good things.

God doesn’t approach us as if he was a businessman, negotiating for the best deal. He doesn’t have office hours. He doesn’t take coffee breaks.

Our loving and generous Heavenly Father is available to us whenever we want to speak and listen.

And since He’s available 24/7, we have to realize one more thing. He’s not a vending machine. We’re not supposed to put in words of praise and adoration like quarters into a machine. He doesn’t give out blessings and miracles if you push the right buttons.

God is real. He’s a person with feelings. We sometimes forget how to speak to God since we’ve never encountered anyone else who is Almighty, Omnipotent, and Omniscient. We have to remember that seeking God is simply seeking a relationship with him.

I don’t think of the reward mentioned in Hebrews 11:6 in earthly or financial terms. When I’ve spent time seeking God with my whole heart, the satisfying and enduring reward that He gave me was the thrill of his warm presence. Having a conversation with God is more important to me than receiving a gift of finances. I know He provides and protects in whatever way He chooses, so I don’t worry about what I don’t control. I simply enjoy His presence.

Right now is the perfect time to thank God for his presence with us.