I got in on the tail end of gold stars. They had quit giving them for Sunday School attendance, and I only received stickers on good work for two school years. I don’t think they were stars, either. Anyway, most people understand the concept of gold stars; you did something to the best of your ability, and you get a sticker in return. A sticker that won’t last all that long, but you feel mighty good about getting it. Adults don’t expect to get gold stars from their bosses, but we do from God.

Oh, I imagine that last phrase has stirred some denial, and I’m joining in. We wouldn’t expect God to give us a sticker for praying every day, or giving money to a charity. That is crazy talk. Yet we do it. Be honest with yourself, and tell me that you have never said something like this, “God, you know that I gave money to that group that helps orphans, so do You think that I could maybe get/do ______?” We did something good and then want something in return.

If God had a chart for each of us where He put gold stars, I don’t think I would really want to see mine. I’m sure that it would also show where I could have gotten one but didn’t. God wants us to do our best, but He isn’t going to shower us with praise and then let us go back to our seats. We should continually strive to improve the skills and talents He has given us.

Just a random thought.