Our God: The Rewarder

Pastor Kara Díaz
 

"And it is impossible to please God without faith. Anyone who wants to come to him must believe that God exists and that he rewards those who sincerely seek him." — Hebrews 11:6

God delights in rewarding those who seek Him. Pastor Kara opened her message by explaining the distinction between salvation and living the kingdom life in Christ. Salvation is a free gift of God’s grace, but kingdom rewards come when we intentionally seek Him.

She shared how the wise men traveled over 500 miles—a journey requiring years of planning and commitment—to seek Jesus. This wasn’t a casual decision; it took intentionality and planning. Similarly, we can have as much of God as we desire, but we must pursue Him. As Pastor Kara reminded us, “We have not because we ask not.”

When we declare God’s promises, give sacrificially, spend time with Him, and are faithful in the little things, God sees it all and rewards us. Salvation grants us access to God, but kingdom principles—such as giving, prayer, forgiveness, and fasting—unlock greater treasures and influence in His kingdom. Jesus highlighted these principles in Matthew 6, emphasizing that what we do in secret, God rewards openly.

Pastor Kara underscored fasting as a powerful but often overlooked kingdom principle. Fasting humbles us, silences the soulish realm, and sharpens our spiritual sensitivity to hear God and receive revelation. Pastor Kara stated when we give God our “first fruits”—our first and best that the rest of our year is blessed. She explained that’s why we start each year at Vida Church with prayer and fasting. Click here to watch Pastor Kara’s message: "First Fruits" for more insights. 

She also challenged us to step out of our comfort zones and live intentionally for the kingdom. “We are called to influence the world,” she said, reminding us that Sunday sermons should supplement, not replace, what we learn directly from the Holy Spirit throughout the week.

Before planning for 2025, she urged us to seek the Lord. The greatest reward is Jesus Himself, who promises: “In all your ways acknowledge Him, and He will make your path smooth, agreeable, pleasant, and prosperous” (Proverbs 3:6).

As she closed, Pastor Kara reminded us that pastors are called not only to “comfort the afflicted” but also “afflict the comfortable.” She urged us to go deeper in seeking the Lord and living out kingdom principles making 2025 a year to pursue God with greater passion and intention than ever before. Pastor Kara also cautioned that deception is one of the greatest signs of the end times, but assured us that those who diligently seek the Lord will not be led astray. She encouraged everyone to participate in the upcoming week of corporate prayer and fasting as we seek God together for 2025.

She also shared practical ways to elevate our kingdom walk and step out of our comfort zones. Which new activity will you choose?

• Read through the Bible in a year. (It’s the #1 way God speaks to us!)
• Volunteer at church
• Fast once a week / month.
• Pray with a stranger who needs a miracle. (Expecting it!)
• Read a new book from our bookstore every month.
• Come to morning prayer once a week.
• Join Vida Supernatural School of Ministry.
• Come to Worship night 
• Come to Wednesday night family church.
• Give generously with faith.

Ask the Holy Spirit how you can seek God in a new and deeper way this year. 2025 will be full of the rewards of the Lord if you seek first the kingdom of God!  Click here to listen to Pastor Kara’s full message and learn more about kingdom living in 2025.