RECOGNITION FROM GOD AND THE WORLD
How compatible is recognition from God with recognition from the world? The Bible says the things of the world are opposed to the things of God, and one cannot love both (1 John 2:16; Matthew 6:24). The Bible tells us to seek first the things of God, and all other good things of the world that meets God’s all-wise approval will be added (Matthew 6:33; Psalm 84:11).
SEEKING RECOGNITION FROM THE WORLD
Some people value the recognition from the world more than that from God. They primarily seek things esteemed by the world—having more money and possessions than others; higher positions; better appearances, including seeming more righteous. Jesus pointed out a money-loving rich man, and some self-righteous Pharisees who were like this (Luke 18:18-24; Matthew 23:5). But the Lord advises us not to be like those who seek world’s recognition and temporal gains more than God’s recognition and heavenly rewards (Matt. 5:20; 1 Timothy 6:9-12)
SEEKING RECOGNITION FROM GOD
Those who seek first the recognition of God endeavor to glorify him and not themselves. John who was privileged to baptize Jesus said, “he must increase, but I must decrease (John 3:30).” Paul who became an apostle of Jesus said, “it is no longer I that live, but it is Christ who lives in me (Galatians 2:20).” The biblical Word of God says we who are followers of the Lord should think of ourselves as crucified with Christ, our lives hidden in him. But when Christ who is our life appears, we will also appear with him in glory. (Colossians 3:3-4).
REWARDED ACCORDING TO HEARTS BY GOD
God gives many gifts and talents to be used primarily for his glory, and for lovingly helping others (1 Colossians 1:16; 1 Corinthians 12) . However, some people use the things God gives them mainly for themselves, while often claiming to be doing things for God. While man looks at outward appearances, God looks at the heart (1 Samuel 16:7). Nevertheless, the Bible reveals that at the final judgment God will reward according to people’s deeds and motives (Matthew 25:31-46).
The scriptures show the Lord Jesus Christ rejecting some people who claimed to have done great things in his name–even prophesying and casting out demons in his name (Matthews 7:21-23). On the other hand, he is shown rewarding those who were hardly recognized in the world for demonstrating genuine Christly love for the Lord and others—The Lord tells them: “Come, you who are blessed by my Father; take your inheritance, the kingdom prepared for you (Matt. 25:34).
