My Reward Paul Baloche

	Required fields in bold.
Name:
Location:	(e.g., Portland, OR)
Rating:	Five stars - I love it! Four stars - I like it Three stars - It's OK Two stars - I don't like it One star - I hate it
Comment:	This review feature is open to comments and constructive criticism that demonstrates respect for artists and readers. Comments that reflect spiritual insights are especially welcome. (Limit: 1,000 characters)

Artist Reflection

The first time I heard "My Reward," written by Paul Baloche, I didn't realize my whole life was going to change. A good friend and renowned speaker, Dr. Greg Weisbruch, had invited me to go with him to a concert and musical workshop by the celebrated writer of "Above All," which was the song of the year. My friend had an extra ticket, so he encouraged me to invite someone from the music ministry team that was leading the parish worship nights. His intentions were to help us learn more about how others lead worship and see what we could draw from them. Little did I know that my life was going to change.

I invited a very good friend and on-and-off girlfriend —no joke— because I simply thought she would enjoy it. The concert started and we were all having fun and entering in, when "My Reward" started. It grabbed me. I'd been praying that God would open up my heart and take away whatever was keeping me bored, numb, directionless, tired, depressed, unfulfilled, etc. We were worshipping God and I was giving my whole self to him when it happened. As if the scales were falling from my eyes, I saw Lindsay in a COMPLETELY different light. I saw the beautiful person that I had taken for granted in so many ways for so many years, and I felt a fire that hadn't been there in a long time.

After about 3 months we were back together for good, engaged about 11 months later, married a year later, and now expecting our first child around Thanksgiving.

In the song, we pray that we might be good and faithful servants in the eyes of God, "For in the twinkling of an eye, we'll all be changed, we'll meet you in the sky and see you face to face." If Jesus really is "my reward" and my greatest treasure then how do I live? Do I trust God enough to give him my WHOLE heart?

For me, I didn't realize how much I was holding back and not giving God my best. So, if someone invites you to a worship event, GO! It could change your life!

- Curtis Stephan