The term "re-reward" isn't explicitly found in the Bible. However, the concept it represents—receiving a renewed or amplified blessing after a period of hardship or loss—is a recurring theme woven throughout scripture. Understanding this requires examining biblical principles of restoration, justice, and God's abundant provision. This exploration delves into the multifaceted ways the Bible addresses the idea of receiving a "re-reward," looking beyond the literal phrase to the spiritual realities it embodies.
What Does the Bible Say About Restoration?
The Bible repeatedly emphasizes God's desire to restore what has been lost. This restoration encompasses various aspects of life, including:
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Physical Restoration: Numerous accounts depict God's miraculous healing powers, restoring health and wholeness (e.g., the healing of the blind, the lame, and the lepers). This showcases God's compassion and ability to reverse physical damage.
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Emotional Restoration: Scripture acknowledges the depth of human suffering and offers solace and comfort. Psalm 23, for example, assures believers of God's unwavering presence during times of distress, promising restoration of peace and strength. The concept of healing emotional wounds through God's grace is central to many biblical narratives.
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Spiritual Restoration: This is perhaps the most significant aspect of restoration. Through repentance and faith in Jesus Christ, individuals can experience forgiveness of sins and reconciliation with God, restoring their broken relationship with their Creator. This spiritual renewal leads to a renewed sense of purpose and a transformation of character.
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Material Restoration (Provision): While material wealth isn't the ultimate goal, the Bible speaks of God's provision for His people. Stories of miraculous provision (e.g., the multiplication of loaves and fishes) illustrate God's ability to meet needs beyond human capabilities. This isn't a guarantee of riches, but rather a demonstration of God's faithfulness to care for His children.
Does God Repay Good Deeds?
The question of whether God "repays" good deeds is complex. While scripture emphasizes the importance of righteous living and generosity, the focus isn't on receiving a direct quid pro quo. Instead, the emphasis lies on:
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Blessings as a Consequence of Obedience: Following God's commands is often associated with blessings, not as a reward earned, but as a natural outflow of living in alignment with His will. Deuteronomy 28, for example, outlines the blessings that come from obedience and the curses that result from disobedience.
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Eternal Rewards: The ultimate reward for believers is not material wealth or earthly possessions, but eternal life with God in Heaven. This surpasses any earthly reward, emphasizing the importance of spiritual growth over material gain.
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God's Grace and Mercy: The Bible stresses that salvation and blessings are ultimately gifts of God's grace, not something earned through good works. Ephesians 2:8-9 emphasizes that salvation is a gift received through faith, not works.
What About Unjust Suffering?
The Bible acknowledges that injustice and suffering exist in the world. The book of Job grapples with this issue directly, exploring the complexities of suffering and God's sovereignty. While the book doesn't offer simple answers, it reinforces God's faithfulness and the ultimate triumph of good over evil. The concept of "re-reward" in the context of unjust suffering may find resonance in the promise of future justice and restoration in the eternal realm.
Conclusion: Finding Abundant Life
The idea of a "re-reward" in a biblical context is best understood through the lens of God's restorative power and abundant grace. While there's no direct biblical term, the overarching themes of restoration, provision, and ultimate reward provide a richer understanding of how God blesses those who trust in Him. The focus shifts from a transactional understanding of reward to a relationship-based understanding of God's abundant love and faithfulness. Ultimately, the greatest reward isn't a simple return on investment, but the experience of a restored relationship with God and the promise of eternal life.
