You Do Not Labor in Vain

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.

1 Corinthians 15:58 (NKJV)

When a young Christian was called by God into the ministry, no one believed he was capable of shouldering such a responsibility; even members of his own family struggled to accept the idea. Yet, he never abandoned his calling, even though he knew neither where to begin nor how to establish a church. Nevertheless, it was evident that he possessed the anointing of the Holy Spirit; wherever he preached, he edified souls. Everyone desired to hear him preach, for he brought them hope, comfort, and spiritual edification. He went from church to church, preaching in each one, in order to lay the foundations for his calling to the pastorate.

All the pastors of the churches where he preached took advantage of him; they all invited him to come and preach. Although he saw through their ploy, he devoted himself entirely to the task of preaching. "As long as it is for the Lord, let them take advantage of me," he told himself. Eventually, he founded his own church; at first, only he and his wife attended. Yet, he did not become discouraged. Although everyone loved his style of preaching and teaching, no one wanted to become a member of his congregation, for he had established it right within his own home. But he remained unshakable in his faith, knowing that God would bring believers to join him—just as He had done in the time of the apostles, as recorded in the Book of Acts.

Two years later, as he sat beside his wife, reflecting on the journey they had traveled together to establish that church, they had every reason to praise and worship the name of God. The church now occupied its own building, its membership had surpassed one hundred, and its various ministries were bearing abundant fruit. The church welcomed numerous visitors every Sunday, and its active members felt truly at home there. This underscores the importance of maintaining faith in what you are accomplishing for the Lord—of being steadfast and firm. For as long as your heart remains devoted to what you do for His glory, you will never lack for either time or resources. Even if the breakthrough is slow in coming, your labor will never be in vain.

May the grace and peace of God be with you.