One of the deepest longings of the human heart is to be recognized, appreciated, and rewarded. From the time we are children, a word of praise or a token of recognition sparks joy within us. Even in adulthood, human nature delights in being celebrated for good deeds, achievements, or sacrifices. Appreciation makes us feel valued, needed, and honored.
Yet, while this desire is natural, Scripture presents a perspective that turns the tables on how we view reward. The Bible consistently teaches us that the recognition of people, though pleasant and affirming, should not be our ultimate pursuit.
Jesus, in Matthew 6:3–4, cautions us: “But when you give to the needy, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, so that your giving may be in secret. Then your Father, who sees what is done in secret, will reward you.”
This teaching directly contrasts human reward with divine reward. Human recognition often comes publicly—through applause, titles, or appreciation. But God’s reward, though sometimes unseen by others, carries eternal weight and divine favor.
In another portion, Jesus warns that when people do good deeds “to be seen by men,” they “have already received their reward” (Matthew 6:1–2). In other words, earthly recognition may satisfy temporarily, but it cancels out the deeper, lasting reward that only God can give.
Human appreciation, though sweet, is fragile. It fades quickly.
If your motivation is anchored in human praise, you may find yourself empty when it fails or inconsistent in your commitment when no one notices.
On the other hand, God’s reward is Eternal. Unlike fleeting applause, it carries eternal significance. God sees beyond appearances into the heart, and His judgment is fair and perfect.
So the question stands: Who would you rather reward you—people or God?
If we choose people, we risk settling for temporary recognition. If we choose God, we align ourselves with His eternal promises. When our motivation is God-centered, even if no one notices or claps, heaven records it. Every quiet act of kindness, every uncelebrated sacrifice, every silent prayer carries eternal value.
The highest reward we could ever receive is to one day hear the words of our Lord: “Well done, good and faithful servant” (Matthew 25:21). No earthly applause can compare to that eternal commendation.
Therefore, as believers, we are called to live with this perspective:
Serve faithfully, even when unseen. Give generously, even when unthanked. Work diligently, even when unrecognized.
For ultimately, the question is not whether people see, but whether God is pleased.
People’s rewards are comforting, but God’s reward is complete.