Daily Devotional for Friday, April 17

Jesus Speaks Concerning Rewards

“Then Peter said, Lo, we have left all, and followed thee. And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God’s sake, who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting,” Luke 18:28-30. 

Peter’s question to Jesus is one many disciples have quietly wondered: “What will we gain for all we have sacrificed?” Jesus responded with a promise that reaches into both the present and eternity. Those who give up earthly comforts and relationships for the sake of the kingdom are not forgotten. In fact, they are rewarded both now—with spiritual family, divine provision and a life of purpose—and later, with eternal life. 

Following Jesus often comes with real cost. It might mean walking away from relationships that pull us away from God’s will. It might mean leaving behind career paths or comforts to walk in obedience. But Jesus assured us that nothing we give up for Him is ever truly lost. He sees every sacrifice and multiplies back what we surrender, not always in material wealth, but in spiritual richness, community, joy and eternal inheritance. 

Jesus does not downplay the difficulty of leaving things behind. But He also does not allow us to believe it is without reward. The “manifold more” He speaks of may include peace in trials, love among believers or opportunities to serve and grow in faith. And most importantly, it includes the promise of eternal life—life with Him, forever. 

So when you feel the weight of what you have given up, remember the One who promised to make it more than worth it. In Him, no sacrifice is in vain.

THOUGHT FOR TODAY 

What you surrender for Christ, He multiplies in return. His rewards are not just in Heaven—they begin now.  Trust that every step of faith brings eternal gain.

Steven Ridings