July 2024
Dear Friend,
Have you heard of the “Marshmallow Experiment?”
Years ago, a Stanford professor set up a “sticky” situation to test hundreds of preschool-aged children. The Marshmallow Experiment was designed to find out if these young children possessed one of the most important characteristics linked to success in adulthood — delayed gratification.
One by one, researchers brought children into a room. They placed a single marshmallow on the table in front of each child and offered him a deal. If he could wait and not eat the delicious marshmallow while the adult was absent — only about 15 minutes — then the child would receive two marshmallows!
The choice was simple: one treat now … or an even greater reward later.
Some children watched the adult leave the room and immediately popped the sweet into their mouth. Others nibbled the marshmallow after a few agonizing minutes. But the children who resisted the temptation to immediately gobble up the yummy treat were rewarded with two tasty delights.
Of course, every parent knows the benefit of raising a child who can wait patiently. Research, like the “Marshmallow Experiment,” shows that possessing the ability to work towards long-term goals is a key indicator of future success.
The Bible makes it plain that “delayed gratification” is also an important element of success in our Christian life as we diligently work towards our future rewards.
While many people live for the moment, trying to squeeze the most pleasure out of their time on earth, the Bible presents a heavenly perspective: it’s not about the “here and now,” as much as it is about the “then and there.”
Like Paul, our Christian life on earth won’t be easy. We will need to make midcourse adjustments and be prepared to leverage the detours. Ultimately, our success will require tenacious endurance, as we aim for our ultimate destination and remember that one day, we will all stand before God.
Are you living each day with eternity in mind?
If you’re a Christian, the good news is that God’s future judgment isn’t about receiving his wrath, but about receiving his rewards. Indeed, your faithfulness will be rewarded! Living well, with an eternal perspective, can change your present — and your future.
But too often we get consumed by the temporary, chasing after fleeting pleasures and possessions. As believers, we’re called to a higher purpose.
Heavenly Rewards
by Mark Hitchcock
If you want to refocus your life on your eternal purpose, I strongly encourage you to tune in to the broadcast on FocalPointRadio.org, as well as request this month’s featured resource. It’s an excellent book titled, Heavenly Rewards: Living with Eternity in Sight, by Mark Hitchcock. It’s my thank-you gift when you support Focal Point with a generous donation today.
In a world filled with distractions, fears, and deception, Mark Hitchcock teaches you tangible ways you can please the Lord in your everyday living. Discover that your labor and sacrifices are never in vain because God is a faithful rewarder. Heavenly Rewards will spur you on to use your life for the Lord’s purposes, as you keep your eyes focused on the eternal Kingdom of God.
Summer can be a busy time, and I pray you get some rest and renewal. I also encourage you to take time this summer to think about the coming season in your life and how you can be “Useful to the Lord.”
This is a season when many people take time off to go on vacation, relax, and spend time with family — and they may even forget to give. But at Focal Point, our work never stops. What we accomplish together as partners in ministry doesn’t take a break, so your donation now will help keep the ministry strong and reaching out at a crucial time. Thank you! I am grateful for your faithful support in all seasons.
Looking Forward to Heavenly Rewards,
Mike Fabarez
Pastor and Bible Teacher
