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 (NIV)
Looking around our world, we see many things we don’t agree with. As Christians, we look upon these things as evil. The scarcity of housing, food insecurity, battles with addiction, the growing sex trade–and the list continues, is the result of sin. Often, it’s some form of greed and covetousness.
Today’s scripture provides a remedy for fighting against evil–to stand firm. We, as Christ's followers, are not to condone evil. Instead, we are to fight against its tide fully. Yes, sometimes we may feel like the little boy in the Hans Brinker story who plugs the hole in the breach with his finger to keep the water at bay. We may feel like our efforts are feeble and in vain, but we are to remain steadfast in our labors, confident that we are not alone. God stands with us; the Holy Spirit gives us the strength to carry on.
Earlier, Paul, in his letter to the Galatians, wrote, “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” (6:9) When we feel overwhelmed by the magnitude of the challenges we face, it is essential to remember the promise of a harvest. While we may never see the results in our lives, we have the assurance that our diligent efforts will ultimately bear fruit. Our perseverance in doing good, no matter how small the act, contributes to God's greater plan.
In our perseverance, we can take comfort in the wisdom of John Wesley, who encouraged us to "Do all the good you can, by all the means you can, in all the ways you can, in all the places you can, at all the times you can, to all the people you can, as long as ever you can." His words provide comfort by reminding us that our efforts are valuable and meaningful, whether small or seemingly insignificant. They reassure us that there is always an opportunity to do good and that every act of kindness and service contributes to the greater good. This encouragement helps us to keep going, knowing that our persistent efforts are part of a larger, divine purpose.
Heavenly Father, thank you for the strength you give us to continue doing good in this world. Help us stand firm in our faith and never grow weary of your work. Grant us the courage and perseverance to make a positive impact in the lives of others, just as you have called us to do. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.
Blessings,
Pastor Tim
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