A man of God started a free food outreach program where, every Saturday, people from all walks of life who struggle to make ends meet come to receive a meal. Running this weekly outreach requires extensive planning and logistics. While some workers are hired and paid to support the program, others willingly volunteer their time and services without expecting any reward.

One of these volunteers, who had faithfully served for some time, was kidnapped one day by a group of criminals. They took him deep into a remote forest where they held their captives while waiting for ransom payments from their families. The kidnappers determined the ransom amount based on how wealthy or well-dressed a victim appeared. Because the volunteer was neatly dressed, the kidnappers demanded ₦50 million for his release.

The young man explained to them that he was his mother's only child and that she depended entirely on him for her survival. He pleaded with them, saying there was no way his mother could ever raise such a huge amount of money. However, after witnessing the kidnappers kill one of the other captives, he realized that he could expect no sympathy from them. In his desperation, he turned to God in prayer:

“Lord, I have been serving in this food outreach program for a long time without receiving any payment. You know my mother's situation, and You know that I have no one who can raise this ransom for me. Please take whatever reward I would have earned for serving in Your work, add Your blessing to it, and use it to pay for my freedom.”

Shortly after he finished praying, a fierce argument suddenly broke out among the kidnappers. Their voices grew louder as they exchanged threats and became completely distracted by the conflict.

Seeing that all the kidnappers' attention was focused on the dispute, the volunteer and the remaining captives seized the opportunity and ran for their lives. They ran for hours through the bush until they met a farmer. After explaining what had happened, the farmer directed them to safety. That was how they escaped.

Beloved, the Lord sees every act of service that we render to Him. He sees the sacrifices we make, even when no one else notices. He knows the good works we do sincerely and wholeheartedly. There will come a day when He rewards every labor of love.

May this testimony encourage every brother and sister who continues to serve the Lord despite difficulties, disappointments, or challenges. Do not give up. Stay faithful, remain committed, and keep doing good. God sees your labor, and in His perfect time, your reward will come. God bless you!