1196) I read about a study once that was conducted on young children. They were seated at a table and given a marshmallow. They were told that the adult needed to leave the room for a bit and if the child did not eat the marshmallow while the adult was gone, they would get another one when they return. As you can tell, the study was on the ability a child has to postpone present gratification for something better later.

I don’t think children are the only ones who struggle with present gratification versus future gain. It’s a lot easier to give in to the now rather than the later.

Jesus knew this difficulty also manifests in spiritual things. He said in Matthew that we can earn praise now from man for our giving or give secretly, and God will reward you later.

The best choice is often the more difficult one.

You must choose: Now or later. Matthew 6:2-3