Since ancient times, crowns have symbolized royalty, power, honor, righteousness, victory, and glory. When John saw the glorified Jesus, He was not wearing a crown of thorns. He was wearing many crowns. Many crowns indicate His collecting of all the rulers’ crowns, signifying that He alone is the sovereign ruler of the earth. Collecting the crown of a vanquished king was common in the ancient world.

“Then he took their king’s crown from his head. Its weight was a talent of gold, with precious stones. And it was set on David’s head. “ 2 Samuel 12:20 (NKJV)

“His eyes were like a flame of fire, and on His head were many crowns. He had a name written that no one knew except Himself.” Revelation 19:12 (NKJV)

It’s hard to imagine our sovereign Lord sharing His glory with ordinary men and women, but that’s exactly what the Bible says will happen.

“The Spirit Himself bears witness with our spirit that we are children of God, and if children, then heirs—heirs of God and joint heirs with Christ, if indeed we suffer with Him, that we may also be glorified together” (Romans 8:16–17). Because we have been reconciled to God through the blood of Jesus Christ, we will share in Christ’s glory and receive the riches of His inheritance!

“Everyone who competes for the prize is temperate in all things. Now they do it to obtain a perishable crown, but we for an imperishable crown” (1 Corinthians 9:25).

Amazing! We are clothed in Christ’s righteousness and therefore heirs. One day we will receive rewards for every good work we have accomplished in His name. The Bible clearly lists at least five crowns that will be awarded in heaven.

• The first crown is the Victor’s Crown. This crown will be awarded to those who discipline their minds through the study of God’s Word and prayer (1 Corinthians 9:25–27).

“I have stored up Your word in my heart, that I might not sin against you.”
Psalm 119:11 (NKJV)

• The second is the Crown of Rejoicing, which will be given to those who have led others to Christ

“Don’t be controlling tyrants but lead others by your beautiful examples to the flock. And when the Shepherd-King appears, you will win the victor’s crown of glory that never fades away.” 1 Peter 5:3-4 (NKJV)

” Preach the word! Be ready in season and out of season. Convince, rebuke, exhort, with all longsuffering and teaching.” 2 Timothy 4:2 (NKJV)

“For what is our hope, or joy, or crown of rejoicing? Is it not even you in the presence of our Lord Jesus Christ at His coming?” 1 Thessalonians 2:19.

• The third is the Crown of Righteousness, which will be given to those who have a longing for the Lord Jesus—who look for Jesus’ return.

“There’s a crown of righteousness waiting in heaven for me, and I know that my Lord will reward me on his day of righteous judgment. And this crown is not only waiting for me, but for all who love and long for his unveiling” (2 Timothy 4:8).

• The fourth is the Crown of Life, placed upon those who have endured and triumphed over trial and temptation and persecution, even to the point of martyrdom.

“Do not fear any of those things which you are about to suffer. Indeed, the devil is about to throw some of you into prison, that you may be tested, and you will have tribulation ten days. Be faithful until death, and I will give you the crown of life.” Revelation 2:10

• The fifth is the Crown of Glory, awarded to the faithful shepherds of the people of God and to Christian leaders.

“And when the Shepherd-King appears, you will win the victor’s crown of glory that never fades away” 1 Peter 5:4.

The 24 elders in Revelation 4:10 fall on their faces to worship Jesus and surrender their crowns, laying them at His feet. Why wouldn’t we do the same once we are home with the Lord? How glorious it will be to pay homage to our Savior!

“The twenty-four elders fell facedown before the one seated on the throne and they worshiped the one who lives forever and ever. And they surrendered their crowns before the throne, singing.” Revelation 4:10 (NKJV)

Through the blood of Jesus, we are purified, and His righteousness becomes our own. As heirs and children of the living God, Crowns are issued and with thankful hearts we will lay them at the feet of Christ. How wonderful it will be to honor and praise our Lord this way. How thankful are you that eternal rewards are laid up and waiting for you so that with them He may be glorified and esteemed?

When you are having a bad day, remember who you belong to and straighten your back. Raise you head and look up. You are a child of God! One day you will rule with Christ. Don’t forget your position and walk according to His calling. Purity, Integrity, Compassion, Wisdom, and Love are traits we are to model. Keep moving forward and remember, it’s all about Jesus. To Him be the glory now and forever!