The CSB says, “Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, be steadfast, immovable, always excelling in the Lord’s work, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” The Passion Translation says it this way: “So now, beloved ones, stand firm, stable, and enduring. Live your lives with an unshakable confidence. We know that we prosper and excel in every season by serving the Lord, because we are assured that our union with the Lord makes our labor productive with fruit that endures” (1 Corinthians 15:58). Today’s verse tells us that if we are serving the Lord, we do not labor in vain. We will prosper and excel in every season.
This takes away the excuses we so often have regarding service. Many people do not serve because they are not confident they can handle the task at hand. We say we don’t know enough, don’t have the strength, don’t have the resources, etc. Because we lack confidence, we do not step forward to serve. Another excuse we have to not engage in service is because we do not think our efforts matter. We do not think our part is one that is necessary for the Body. The truth is we all have an important role in the Kingdom. As well, we think that the fruit won’t come from the investment. However, today’s verse says “we do not labor in vain.” We are promised fruit. We are promised that if we show up and serve as He leads, there will be fruit — there will be tangible results. We can trust God will work through us and He will bring the results.
Today is not the time to sit back and watch life pass by us. We have an inheritance to live out right now. If you believe in Jesus Christ, you are a child of the King. You are ordained. You are called. You have a mission. Stand tall. Stand firm. Press forward. You will endure through each season with a great harvest. You simply need to keep showing up each day, keep your eyes fixed on Him, and forget about the results. Leave that to God. You are not laboring in vain. He’s got a great plan. May all we do and say bring Him glory and honor.
Heavenly Father, thank You for the harvest to come. We trust You to bring the fruit. We know that we do not labor in vain. We ask that our words and deeds bring You glory. Lord, help us to make big deposits into the Kingdom. Lord, move through us. Have Your way. In Jesus’ Name. Amen!
Tania Gutekunst 