Benefit: Embracing the Fullness of God's Promises Through Obedience and Faith

Understanding the true benefits of a life in Christ involves more than spiritual gain—it requires commitment, sacrifice, and eternal perspective. These blessings are both present and future, personal and relational, rooted in obedience and expressed in love.

The Cost and Reward of Discipleship

To receive the full benefit and blessing of God’s plan for our lives requires us to be fully committed and obedient to Him. Jesus asked the question, “What is the advantage or benefit if a man gains the whole world but loses his own soul?” (Mk 8:36). Eternal rewards are forfeited by choosing wrong short-term benefits. What we do should be weighed on the scales of eternity! Consider: what will I gain for eternity, or how will it assist the Kingdom of God?

When faced with a choice consider the long-term implications

There is a price to pay in following Christ; however, don’t dwell on what you have to give up or the trials of your faith, but rather consider the blessings and praise God for these riches that far outweigh any sacrifice you will ever make (Rom 8:18; 1 Pet 1:3–7). These benefits include peace with God through our sins being forgiven and so freeing us from eternal judgment, a Friend who is with us all the time, being part of the family of God worldwide, having the Holy Spirit to guide and comfort us, and being rescued from Satan’s snare.

The Power of Generosity and Wisdom

As we comprehend the blessings of the safety and security of being in Christ, we can increasingly reach out to others, effectively fulfilling our responsibilities to our fellow humans, saved and unsaved alike. Scripture tells us that generously investing in the good of others determines the return we receive—for “as you sow, you will reap” (Mt 10:8; Lk 6:38; 2 Cor 9:6; Gal 6:7). Although our salvation is a personal reality, it is to be fruitfully outworked as we focus on others.

The Bible says, “The advantage of knowledge is that wisdom preserves the life of those who have it” (Eccl 7:12). However, to be of benefit, the wisdom must be acted on. Medicine that remains untouched in the bottle does not bring about the desired cure.

Remembering God's Benefits

David said, “Bless the Lord and forget not all His benefits” (Ps 103:2). Do we intentionally bring to mind the good things the Lord has done, is doing, and is yet to do as we reflect on our past and present situation, besides gaining comfort from His promises for our future in heaven? This particular Psalm mentions numerous benefits, starting with “He forgives all my sins and heals all my diseases…” Why not take time now to find the various beneficial things that are recorded and even add to the list, then worship God from whom all these blessings come (Ps 103:1–22)?

Consider the blessings you have in Christ

Reflection and Application:

Regularly evaluate decisions by asking: Does this align with eternal values or temporary gain?
Actively list and thank God for specific spiritual and relational blessings you’ve received.
Invest in others through service and generosity, trusting God’s promise of return.
Apply biblical wisdom daily, not just as knowledge but as a guide for action and character.