Every person has a right to choice; it is called free will. Even though many are obligated by either, someone, or by a circumstance each have a choice. It is a gift from God the freedom to choose. So, whether we chose to become a criminal or to do something good it is ultimately our choice. Whatever we choose in life it has its rewards. God is a re-warder of the good. And, God’s rewards supersede life’s rewards whether life hits us treacherously or somewhat good, his rewards are better. His rewards are satisfying to the soul, they really hit the spot.
Revelation 22:11-13
He that is unrighteous, let him do unrighteousness still: and he that is filthy, let him be made filthy still: and he that is righteous, let him do righteousness still: and he that is holy, let him be made holy still. Behold, I come quickly; and my reward is with me, to render to each man according as his work is. I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.
Because of the freedom of choice God encourages man to continue in his ways, because he knows the rewards that each will get. He says if you are going to be unrighteous continue in it; I dare you. If one is going to be filthy the dare is till on. When he says that he “comes quickly” it is in reference to taking action without hesitation and not as in pace. So, just like he is readily available to reward the wicked he is ready to reward the just and his words testify to his rewards (Ps. 19:9-11). Gideon was a faithful man to God even after Israel had turned the backs on God whom rewarded him with the victory over the midianites once Israel came back to God (Jdg. 6:14). Israel had turned their faces away from God but he did not reward them evil because of that, he poured his mercy on them (Ps. 103:9-11). One of the things God loves to reward is when go over and above our call towards others (pro. 25:21-22). Our actions merit rewards and each Christian will receive a reward for their actions (1Cor. 3:13-14). The way we conduct our selves around others and treat them will acquire some sort of reward. But, also, our internal state will be rewarded depending on the its state. Paul said to the church that the character state of confidence will receive a reward (Heb. 10:35). God is a rewarder of the good and he carries his rewards with him (col. 3:24).