By Pastor Dr. Aggrey Soyekwo
1 Corinthians 15:58 "Therefore, my dear brothers, stand firm. Let nothing move you. Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain." - NIV
All people are engaged in some activity with desire to profit from their labours. At times they succeed, other times they lose out. The hope of some gain gives the motivation and the perseverance to go on. When such hope is lost and there is possibility of wasted effort, work stops. Material or monetary gain aside, it’s natural to also expect appreciation from those for whom we work. It’s disheartening to put in your best effort in an endeavour and no one notices or fails to appreciate!
Paul encouraged the Corinthians that their labours in the Lord was recognised. No work undertaken in the Lord’s name, for His glory, is forgotten. Men may forget or fail to recognise, but God doesn’t. He acknowledges even the smallest service, done behind the public scenes to honour Him. Give yourselg fully to His work, and do whatever you do as to the Lord, not just to be seen by men (Colossians 3:17,23-24). When you focus on recognition from men, you may be discouraged.
There will be temptation to be discouraged, go low or to give up altogether. Stand firm and not be moved. Some work of God may never make us known. Some face severe trials in the course of service, even sealing their testimony with their blood. Cheer up servant of God! He acknowledges your work. Remain true to your call to the end. Your reward awaits, if you don’t grow weary or give up.
Hebrews 6:10 "God is not unjust; he will not forget your work and the love you have shown him as you have helped his people and continue to help them."
Shalom children of God.