In 1 Corinthians 9:24 the apostle Paul says that he is exercising self control in every area of his life in order to win the race that he is in and the prize that will last for all eternity. The prize is to be the person who sits at right hand of Jesus on His throne even as Jesus sits at the right side of the Father’s throne. This goal in Paul’s life kept him on fire and full of passion for the Lord. Most believers don’t understand the end of life judgment that we must all go through and the rewards or lack of rewards that we will receive from Him. Because of this lack of understanding most believers are apathetic in living their life as believers for Christ and growing in their walk with Him. It really doesn’t matter if they grow or not or accomplish anything for the Lord of significance. In their thinking they are saved by Grace, no works required, so now that they are headed for heaven nothing else really matters.

2 Corinthians 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, so that each one may be recompensed for his deeds in the body, according to what he has done, whether good or bad.

1 Corinthians 3:13-15 each man’s work will become evident; for the day will show it because it is to be revealed with fire, and the fire itself will test the quality of each man’s work. If any man’s work which he has built on it remains, he will receive a reward. If any man’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss; but he himself will be saved, yet so as through fire.

The rewards that we receive or don’t receive at the “Judgment Seat of Christ” are significant and last for a long, long time.