“When you give to someone in need, don't do as the hypocrites do--blowing trumpets in the synagogues and streets to call attention to their acts of charity! I tell you the truth, they have received all the reward they will ever get.” (Matthew 6:2 NLT)
My dad used to buy lottery tickets and then sit around talking about what he would do if he won the jackpot. He would speculate on whether he would take the lump-sum option which paid considerably less, or annual payments which paid considerably more but made you wait a long time to get all your winnings. Most people choose the lump-sum option because they would rather have all their reward up front.
In life, we have the choice of getting immediate gratification or waiting for long-term fulfillment. Most of us choose to receive our rewards up front. We sense that this is short-sighted, but we continue to do what makes us feel good in the moment. We opt for worldly validation, thus giving up the opportunity for eternal satisfaction.
Lord, grant us the wisdom and self-control to sacrifice temporary achievements for eternal fulfillment.
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