Aug. 19

Charles Spurgeon · Faith's Checkbook

REWARD FOR THE RIGHTEOUS

   "So that a man shall say, Verily there is a reward for the righteous:
   verily he is a God that judgeth in the earth" Ps 58:11

   God's judgments in this life are not always clearly to be seen, for in
   many cases one event happeneth alike to all. This is the state of
   probation, not of punishment or reward. Yet at times God works terrible
   things in righteousness, and even the careless are compelled to own His
   hand.

   Even in this life righteousness has that kind of reward which it
   prefers above all others, namely, the smile of God, which creates a
   quiet conscience. Sometimes other recompenses follow, for God will be
   in no man's debt. But, at the same time, the chief reward of the
   righteous lies in the hereafter.

   Meanwhile, on a large scale, we mark the presence of the great Ruler
   among the nations. He breaks in pieces oppressive thrones, and punishes
   guilty peoples. No one can study the history of the rise and fall of
   empires without perceiving that there is a power which makes for
   righteousness, and, in the end, brings iniquity before its bar, and
   condemns it with unsparing justice. Sin shall not go unpunished, and
   goodness shall not remain unrewarded. The Judge of all the earth must
   do right. Therefore, let us fear before Him, and no more dread the
   power of the wicked.