Never in Vain

Day 236: 1 Corinthians 15:29-58

“Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord.” - 1 Corinthians‬ ‭15:58‬ ‭NASB‬‬

This is such a fantastic verse to share with those who are struggling to hold on. The very thought of becoming immovable strikes us with the courage to face whatever is to come. It is the Greek word ametakinētos, which can also be translated as not to be moved from place to place. (LSJ) When we stand with Jesus, we will not need to stand anywhere else for this life and the one to come!

Yet still, how can we stand so assured, knowing that our work for Jesus isn’t useless (all for nothing)? Resurrection is yet again the answer. The hope of new bodies. A new heaven and a new earth. A day when all things will be made new (see Revelation 21:1-7).

C.S. Lewis’ thoughts fit well here: “He (God) knows what a wretched machine you are trying to drive. Keep on. Do what you can. One day (perhaps in another world, but perhaps far sooner than that) He will fling it on the scrap-heap and give you a new one.”

Don’t give up just yet. Dig your heels in if you need to. Do whatever it takes to make sure your dependence on Jesus grows more and more every day. In the end, we won’t regret it.

See, I will create

new heavens and a new earth.

The former things will not be remembered,

nor will they come to mind.

- Isaiah 65:17 NIV