Sep
27
Not In Vain
Filed Under Devotional
For some reason, the idea of lost creativity, lost knowledge, or wasted effort is very sad to me. When I see movies about some fantastic creator of art or science working in isolation only to have his work lost to history, I get a chill. Even watching scenes where characters are recording their actions even though they doubt anyone will ever know can choke me up. I think it’s the sense of waste and loss that gets to me. The idea that nobody can recognize or appreciate the work and creativity involved is disheartening. The idea that great effort can be expended and never noticed breaks my heart.
Maybe it’s this same part of me that takes great hope and joy in the idea that I can be used by God. Whether He is leveraging the skills He’s given me or asking me to simply be in the right place at the right time to communicate for Him, I have the privilege of being part of something bigger and something consequential.
I doubt I’ll ever be a headliner, but I’d rather have a bit part in the biggest story ever than be the star in a story that is meaningless and worthless. Being useful to Him is a fulfillment of our purpose.
“Therefore, my dear brothers, 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
To know that your labor in the Lord is not in vain is a fantastic gift. It’s hard to know if any other work is worthwhile, but working as part of His plan is never wasted effort. Don’t miss out on the joy of that knowledge.