1 Corinthians 15:58
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.
Sometimes when I hear a particular word, I will consider its opposite meaning. For instance, with the word steadfast the opposite that pops into my mind is the idea of being wishy-washy. I am sure that many of us have encountered people who talked a big talk, but when push came to shove, they were weak-willed and spiritually anemic. In other words they were wishy-washy! Many unbelievers are eager to point to these wishy washy examples as a representation of all Christians.
The Apostle Paul encountered more than his share of believers who were poor examples of how a true child of God should act. He strongly reacted to a young man named John Mark who started out on a missionary journey with Paul and Barnabas, but went back after a short time (Acts 13:13). But later in Paul’s life, he asked for John Mark to be sent to him in prison as he was profitable to him in the ministry (2 Timothy 4:11).
In our Scripture for today, Paul urges all true believers to demonstrate characteristics that show true spiritual maturity. It is a good way for us to measure our own maturity. Look at the adjectives Paul uses: STEADFAST! IMMOVABLE! ALWAYS ABOUNDING IN THE WORK OF THE LORD!
It is not necessary for us to be an ordained minister in order to do the work of the Lord. We can work at the most menial task and do it as unto the Lord. In fact, that is how we should do anything and everything we set our hand to. Measure your service to the Lord in light of the pattern Paul sets for us here in 1 Corinthians 15:58.
Blessings dear hearts. Draw near to God today, trust Him completely and be a blessing!
—Pastor Cecil