When John Calvin was exiled from Geneva, he said, "Most assuredly if I had merely served man, this would have been a poor recompense; but it is my happiness that I have served Him who never fails to reward His servants to the full extent of His promise."
God promises great reward for all who have served Him faithfully. He will reward every loyal servant for works done in this life --
So do not go on passing judgment before the appointed time, but wait until the Lord comes, for He will both bring to light the [secret] things that are hidden in darkness and disclose the motives of the hearts. Then each one’s praise will come from God. - 1 Corinthians 4:5
God rewards generously, promising a return --
And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother [d]or children or farms for My name’s sake will receive many times as much, and will inherit eternal life. - Matthew 19:29
God rewards us for doing
good works,
denying ourselves,
showing compassion to the needy and treating our enemies kindly. He also grants us rewards for generous giving --
Jesus answered him, “If you wish to be perfect [that is, have the spiritual maturity that accompanies godly character with no moral or ethical deficiencies], go and sell what you have and give [the money] to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me [becoming My disciple, believing and trusting in Me and walking the same path of life that I walk].” - Matthew 19:21
Rewards are promised to those who
endure difficult circumstances while trusting in God, and to those who
persevere under persecution. A life of godliness will be richly rewarded.
Paul reminds us there's a timetable for the harvest --
Let us not grow weary or become discouraged in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap, if we do not give in. - Galatians 6:9
The believer's compensation, just like the unbeliever's, is usually deferred.
