Stand Firm

 

Your Labor Is Not in Vain

“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.”

1 Corinthians 15:58 

In a world driven by speed and success, it’s easy to grow weary in doing good—especially when our prayers seem unanswered or our efforts unrecognized. Yet Paul’s words in 1 Corinthians 15:58 remind us: because of Christ’s resurrection, nothing done for Him is ever wasted.

We do not strive for victory—we serve from it. The battle has already been won through Christ’s death and resurrection. Our labor is not a means to earn God’s approval, but a grateful response to His finished work. Jesus has conquered sin and death once and for all. As Philippians 1:6 reminds us, “He who began a good work in you will carry it on to completion.” God never abandons what He starts—in us or through us.

Still, it’s tempting to give up when we see little fruit. That’s why Galatians 6:9 encourages: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” That harvest may not be immediate or visible, but it is certain.

In a culture obsessed with speed, platform, and performance, it’s easy to grow restless when we don’t see instant impact. But Richard Foster reminds us that the real threats to spiritual life often come not from hardship but from “noise, hurry, and crowds.” These steal our attention, cloud our discernment, and pressure us to substitute public validation for quiet obedience. Standing firm may mean resisting the urge to compare, striving instead for depth over display, and faithfulness over fame.

Your unseen prayers, your quiet acts of love, your persistent obedience in mundane moments—all of it matters. Because of the resurrection, your labor is never in vain. God sees it. God values it. God will complete it. So stand firm. Let nothing move you. Live today with quiet courage and full-hearted devotion knowing that in the Lord, every act of love echoes in eternity.

Prayer

Lord Jesus, thank You that because of Your resurrection, our labor is not in vain. When we grow tired, discouraged, or feel unseen, remind us that You are completing what You began in us. Teach us to stand firm and to give ourselves fully to Your work, trusting that a harvest will come in Your time. May we live and labor today not for applause, but for Your glory. Amen.