Work done for the Lord will not be in vain
For sin is the sting that results in death, and the law gives sin its power. But thank God! He gives us victory over sin and death through our Lord Jesus Christ. So, my dear brothers and sisters, be strong and immovable. Always work enthusiastically for the Lord, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless. 1 Corinthians 15:56-58
Motivation in doing something worthwhile is very important. If you are just duty-bound on why you are doing something, you can easily be burned-out. But if you find joy and delight in what you are doing the tendency is to continue on even if the desired results are not always achieved. When you are called upon to minister by God though the things you are doing in your job or ministry, God will minister to you first before He uses you to minister to others. God wants you to be a channel of His blessings to others. In order for this to take place, you need to be aware that wherever you are and in whatever you will do, God is there with you. The awareness of His presence is very important so that whatever you will do will be an expression of your service to God. This awareness of God’s presence will motivate you to adjust your outlook regarding the work you are doing. Your focus is to glorify Him in whatever you do. “Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people” (Colossians 3:23). Your love to God should motivate you to give your best in the things you do. You love God so you want to please Him. Though you won’t be able to repay the sacrifice He did for you on the cross so you could have a relationship with Him, all He wants from you is your commitment and dedication. When you trusted Christ with your life and you call Him your “Lord and Master” cheerfully serve Him whether your work matters to others or not. As the Apostle Paul told the Christians in Corinth, be encouraged “that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless.” In another instance, Paul encouraged Christians that if they will remain faithful in what God called them to do, their labor will not be in vain because others around will take notice and get approval. “If you serve Christ with this attitude, you will please God, and others will approve of you, too” (Romans 14:18). What you do makes a difference in the lives of others so do not lose heart. Be persistent and unwavering in your service for the Lord. “We urge you in the name of the Lord Jesus to live in a way that pleases God, as we have taught you. You live this way already, and we encourage you to do so even more” (1 Thessalonians 4:1).
Blessings,
