Parable of the Master and Servant

But who is there among you, having a servant plowing or keeping sheep, that will say, when he comes in from the field, "Come immediately and sit down at the table," and will not rather tell him, "Prepare my supper, clothe yourself properly, and serve me, while I eat and drink. Afterward you shall eat and drink"? Does he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded? I think not. Even so you also, when you have done all the things that are commanded you, say, "We are unworthy servants. We have done our duty." - Jesus Christ
— Luke 17:7-10

Let's rephrase this to gain better insight. Does your boss thank you when you do only your duty but not any more than requested? Usually not until you go above and beyond and surprise your boss do they thank you for your efforts. In my opinion, the same goes for God. Just doing your duty is not enough. You must always go above and beyond your comfort level, doing more than you should with a certain amount of love. This is where the Lord rewards. Simply following the commandments of God with little love in your heart does nothing to impress the Lord. ​