Some of the world’s greatest creators lived and died convinced their accomplishments didn’t matter. Vincent van Gogh (1853–1890) battled mental illness, poverty, and loneliness. He sold almost none of his paintings in his lifetime and died believing he had failed. Emily Dickinson (1830–1886) spent most of her life in seclusion, writing nearly 1,800 poems that were discovered only after her death. Johann Sebastian Bach (1685–1750) worked tirelessly as a church musician, often underpaid and unappreciated, and—for nearly a century after he died, the world ignored his genius.
Yet today, each of their works is considered priceless.
My friend, the Christian life runs on a very different measure of worth. Scripture makes it clear that God values faithfulness, not fame. Jesus said:
“Therefore, when you do a charitable deed, do not sound a trumpet before you as the hypocrites do in the synagogues and in the streets, that they may have glory from men. Assuredly, I say to you, they have their reward. But when you do a charitable deed, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing, that your charitable deed may be in secret; and your Father who sees in secret will Himself reward you openly.” Matthew 6:2-4
People may overlook our work, but God never does. Paul reminds us that it’s our MOTIVATION that makes our work eternal:
“And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.” Colossians 3:23-24
Do you want to invest in eternal rewards and obtain eternal crowns?
Well, every born again believer CAN! When we create, serve, or sacrifice for Jesus, our work carries eternal value, even if no one on earth notices. Van Gogh’s brilliance wasn’t affirmed until after his death. But we, as born again believers, don’t need to worry about history EVER giving us approval! God’s approval is immediate. It’s interesting that Bach signed many of his compositions with “Soli Deo Gloria” (“Glory to God alone.”) This simple phrase embodies the heart of a Christian whose life is centered on glorifying Christ rather than applause. God promises that such faithfulness receives eternal rewards and many crowns:
“And when the Chief Shepherd appears, you will receive the crown of glory that does not fade away.” 1 Peter 5:4
“Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life.” James 1:12
Someday every human will stand in judgement in one of two venues: The Great White throne or the Judgement Seat of Christ. As a born again believer, our salvation is never on the line. But God will evaluate our life’s work—not by earthly success—but by our faithfulness to bring glory to Him. The Bible reminds us:
“For God is not unjust to forget your work and labor of love.” Hebrews 6:10
Jesus commanded us:
“Store up for yourselves treasures in heaven.” Matthew 6:20
My friend, Jesus wants to bless us beyond what we can imagine. But we have to be willing to work for HIS glory. Even when we don’t see the results, we can trust that when we are working for His glory—it matters for all eternity. Our unseen prayers, quiet acts of obedience, sacrificial giving, faithful service—are masterpieces in God’s eyes.
May your life be remembered by “Glory to God alone.”
Reflection:
What part of your life or service feels unnoticed—and how does knowing that God sees and eternally values your faithfulness reshape your attitude toward it?
Prayer:
Father, teach me to live for Your eyes alone. Help me offer every gift, every act of obedience, every sacrifice in the quiet places of my life for Your glory—not for recognition from others. Remind me that You see what is hidden and reward what is done for Your glory. Make my work a masterpiece for eternity, not because of my talent, but because of Your grace working through me. Write “Glory to God alone” across everything I do. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
