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Refocusing on the Judgment Seat of Christ: A Devotional Excerpt from Unshaken

Faith is not just about what we believe—it’s about how we live. As you work through these devotionals, my prayer is that you will grow stronger, stand firmer, and live bolder for Christ. No matter what comes, you can remain unshaken because your foundation is in Him. – John O’Malley

Below is an excerpt from Bro. John O’Malley’s book, Unshaken: Strengthening Your Faith. If you would like to read the book in its entirety, please click here.

Refocusing on the Judgment Seat of Christ

1 Corinthians 3:13

“Every man’s work shall be made manifest: for the day shall declare it, because it shall be revealed by fire; and the fire shall try every man’s work of what sort it is.”

Learn About It

Paul reminds the Corinthian believers that everything they do for the Lord will one day be tested. The “day” he refers to is the Judgment Seat of Christ—a future time when believers will stand before Christ, not for punishment, but for rewards.

Paul uses the metaphor of fire to describe how God will evaluate a believer’s works. Gold, silver, and precious stones represent things done for Christ with pure motives, while wood, hay, and stubble represent things done with selfish ambition or earthly priorities (1 Corinthians 3:12). Fire refines gold and silver but consumes wood and hay. Similarly, only what is truly done for Christ will last.

This verse is a sobering reminder that while salvation is by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9), our works still matter. Every believer will one day give an account of their life—not to determine their salvation, but to reveal what they did with the opportunities God gave them.

Apply It to Me

It’s easy to get caught up in the temporary things of life—success, recognition, or personal comfort. But Paul urges us to think eternally. What are we building? Will our efforts stand the test of fire, or will they burn away?
Take a moment to consider:
•Are you serving God with pure motives, or are you doing things for recognition?
•Are you investing in things that will last for eternity, like sharing the gospel, discipling others, and growing in Christ?
•Or are you focusing only on things that are temporary—career, possessions, or entertainment?
God doesn’t judge success the way the world does. He looks at faithfulness. One day, He will evaluate not just what we did, but why we did it. Will your works remain when tested by fire?

Talk to God About It

Father,
Thank You for the reminder that my life will one day be tested by fire. Help me to live with eternity in mind, focusing on what truly matters. Show me where I have been building with “wood, hay, and stubble” instead of gold, silver, and precious stones. Teach me to serve You with pure motives, not for human approval but for Your glory. May my life be pleasing to You so that, on that day, I may hear, “Well done, thou good and faithful servant.” In Jesus’ name, Amen.

Act on It

Examine your priorities. Make a list of three things you are investing your time in. Ask yourself, “Will this matter in eternity?” If not, consider how you can shift your focus toward things that have lasting value.

John O’Malley

If this article has been an encouragement to you, you can email Bro. O’Malley to let him know.