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

1 Corinthians 15:58

I started working at a very young age. I sold ice cream on sticks as early as nine years old; I labored at construction sites in my early teens; I filled racks and gondolas with products at supermarkets in my late teens, and I moved from one BPO company to another in my twenties. Just like many employed individuals, I thought my job was pointless. It was hard for me to stay in one workplace because I never found what I was seeking. Then, the Lord found me.

The Corinthians were at a point where their faith was being shaken because of the culture that surrounded them. That's why the Apostle Paul persuades them to do three things. 

First, he tells them to "be steadfast” (“hedraios,” “firm”). It means to be faithful to the Lord and His teaching. The Corinthians are surrounded by people with philosophies that contradict Christian doctrines, but they are to stay true to the Christian faith.

Second, Paul encourages them to "be immovable.” Metaphorically, it means “firmly persistent.” Because of the rampant wickedness in their culture, the Apostle wants the Corinthians to be unmoved in their Christian convictions. Some of the dangerous activities prevalent in their environment are pagan and emperor worship. They should remember that God is a jealous God who demands exclusive worship and service.

Third, he urges them to be "always abounding in the work of the Lord.” The Corinthians are to consistently give themselves to the things that have eternal value, i.e., living a God-honoring life and witnessing for Christ. This command carries the idea of constancy and going beyond what is expected. They are to serve God continually and exhaust every resource to fulfill God’s mandate.

The promise is found in the last part of verse 58, "knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.” The realities Paul taught them, especially the teachings about Christ's Resurrection and the resurrection of the saints should give them the motivation to serve the Lord faithfully.

This appeal is not only for pastors, missionaries, or Christian leaders; it is for every believer. This verse is a message of hope for you and me. I never found my purpose in my previous jobs because I wasn't doing things for God. I did them to survive. But when God rescued me, I discovered my life’s mission: to give Him glory in everything I do.

Maybe you're someone who has been doing the same thing for years, and you find it tedious, unrewarding, and thankless. You may feel like your job doesn't achieve anything, and God has forgotten you. I ask you to remember what Jesus has accomplished for you and me: victory, purpose, and meaning. Aren't those reasons enough to be excited about life?

If you do not do what you do to get by, can I persuade you to change your mind? Do what you do to glorify Christ. God put you where you are right now for a purpose, and that is to be the salt and light of that place. So, dedicate to God every day of your work and find satisfaction in Him. Work by faith and not by sight, knowing that God redeemed you for His ultimate glory. Your service to God is never pointless.

Pursue the Saviour today!