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.
1 Corinthians 15:58, NKJV
British humorist Jerome K. Jerome said, “I like work; it fascinates me. I can sit and look at it for hours.” Although our labor can wear us out at times, it can also fill us with a deep sense of meaning and satisfaction. A job well done is its own reward.
Christians serving the local church spend many hours every week teaching classes, cooking meals, visiting members, reaching prospects, rehearsing music, running meetings, setting up chairs and cleaning rooms. We pray, preach, teach, sing, serve, give, and counsel—only to experience heartache whenever a soul turns away from God.
If you ever feel like you are not making a difference, remember this verse. Your labor in the Lord is not in vain. He is at work achieving His purpose in you.