Be Good to People—Because God Sees and God Rewards
As followers of Christ, we are called to live differently. In a world that often promotes self-interest, revenge, and competition, we are called to love, to serve, and to be good to others—not just when it’s easy, but especially when it’s hard. This isn't just a moral ideal; it’s a reflection of the heart of Jesus Christ Himself. It’s our testimony to the world.
Being good to people isn't about earning their approval or being seen as a "nice" person. It's about walking in obedience to God's Word. It’s about letting the fruit of the Spirit—love, kindness, patience, gentleness—shine through us in everyday life. And the beautiful truth is: God sees it all. And He promises to reward it.
1. Jesus Showed Us What Goodness Looks Like
Jesus was good to people. He loved the unlovable, forgave the unforgivable, and served the undeserving. He sat with sinners, defended the outcasts, healed the broken, and washed the feet of those who would betray Him. He lived the ultimate example of divine kindness.
In Luke 6:35, Jesus tells us plainly:
“But love your enemies, do good to them, and lend to them without expecting to get anything back. Then your reward will be great, and you will be children of the Most High, because he is kind to the ungrateful and wicked.”
What a standard! Jesus didn’t say, “Be good to those who are good to you.” He said, “Love your enemies. Do good even when they don’t deserve it.” Why? Because that’s what God does. That’s what makes us look like Him.
When we are good to people—even those who don’t return the favor—we are showing that we belong to the Kingdom of God, not the kingdom of this world.
2. God Keeps Records—Even When People Don’t
Sometimes, being good feels thankless. Maybe you’ve been kind to people who only used you. Maybe you’ve forgiven someone who never apologized. Maybe you’ve stayed humble when others tried to tear you down.
It’s easy to get discouraged. But hear this clearly:
“God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them.”
—Hebrews 6:10
God keeps track. Not for the sake of tallying points, but because He is a just and loving Father who sees every hidden sacrifice, every silent act of kindness, every decision to do what’s right when no one else was watching. And He promises a reward for it.
That reward may not always come in the way we expect—or in the timing we’d prefer—but it will come. Sometimes it’s peace. Sometimes it’s favor. Sometimes it’s spiritual growth. Sometimes it’s protection. And sometimes, the reward is waiting for us in eternity, where God will say, “Well done, good and faithful servant.”
