1 CORINTHIANS 15:58

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 labour in the Lord is not in vain.

TO PONDER

As an ex-semi-professional Australian Rules footballer, under Head Coach Tom Hafey, I distinctly recall his recurring message articulating that "your success will directly reflect the level of effort you put in on the training track", or words to that effect. Set-backs such as injury or even suspension, were part of the journey but these trials only made you stronger through resilience, and when you came through the other side, the tribulations would all be worth the effort, sacrifices and dedication. I only ever played in one senior sport Premiership team and whilst it wasn’t football, (it was cricket) the overall experience was something that I will cherish for the rest of my life.

Today we hear some very wise words from our scripture coach, the apostle Paul in his first letter to the Corinthians.    

-        We are told to stand firm. 

Maintain an unwavering devotion to Christ, even amidst the trials, temptations or opposition we will encounter in this world.

-        Let nothing move us. 

We are to remain unshakable so that we are not diverted away from our faith. We must maintain our spiritual maturity and resist all distractions.

-        We are to always give ourselves fully to the work of the Lord. 

Remain steadfast in our continuous enthusiasm and engagement in serving the Lord and others. This is not only in church ministry but extends to general outreach or daily acts of kindness and love. Everything we do must be primarily focused on serving God.

-        Our labour in the Lord is not in vain.

Here our coach assures us that all our efforts for God have eternal value, even when they may not be noticed or appreciated in our world today. We will share in the ultimate reward won for us through Christs death and resurrection. 

If we can follow the instructions of Paul’s coach’s address to us, we will certainly reap the ultimate reward for our efforts, dedication and commitment to the Christian cause as members of Christ’s team.  

PRAYER:Merciful Saviour. I am embarrassed when I look at the ledger to see all that You have done and hence won and promised me, compared to my weak and feeble contributions. Encourage me to keep focused on your message and those of my faith mentors, shepherds and coaches so my faith remains strong, unshakable and I can dedicate my life to You in Your service and reap the ultimate reward that awaits me and all my fellow believers.  Amen            

Today's devotion written by Shane Burdack, LifeWay Epping.