Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, 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.
New International Version (NIV)
What a hurricane season we have had. One vivid picture which comes to mind is the reporters who stand out in the storm and tell us how bad it is. I always want to say to them, “Thank you. Now go inside. We can see that it is bad. Don’t get carried away (literally).”
After his great explanation of the implications of the resurrection, Paul gets practical. The winds of sin and death blow a gale in this world. Together we can stand firm and not be moved. Our strength in this life lies in giving ourselves completely to the work of the Lord. The resurrection has to do with everything including our relationships with the Lord and each other. I saw this in my mom. I see it in many of you.
Be encouraged: Christ’s resurrection means death has no ultimate sting or victory over you. We who have recently lost loved ones, might have begun to wonder. In answer to Paul’s question, “Where is death’s sting?” we might have said, “Right here, actually.” But Paul sees the bigger picture. Death does not defeat us in the end. This means everything we do for God today really counts. It is not in vain. Death does not erase our work for Christ. Someday when death dies, all that will matter is what we have done for the Lord. “Only one life, it will soon be past. Only what is done for Christ will last."
Pray with me:
Father, how we thank you today that our labor in the Lord is not in vain. Help us to give ourselves fully to your work today, we pray. In Jesus’ name. Amen.
I want to invite you to join me in memorizing 52 passages this year from the 2017 set of Fighter Verses. You can find the Fighter Verses App at the App Store on your phones or via this link http://fighterverses.com/the-verses/fighter-verses/. As we study the Bible this year, let's look at each text and learn what it says about God.
Joyfully,
Duane
Copyright 2017. All Rights Reserved.
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