We have been looking at the Resurrection for several months now, but before moving on, there is one last thing I would like to look at regarding the Resurrection and its benefits for the believer. In the final verse of 1 Corinthians 15, Paul concludes this iconic chapter by saying:
“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 Cor. 15:58)
It is no wonder this verse has been adored and memorized throughout church history. All of us desire to be profitable, to make a difference, or to accomplish something in this life, and this verse tells us that as Christians, what we do is important.
Many people in this world strive to leave behind a legacy, but the hard truth is that not many do. And the harder truth is that even those who do leave behind a legacy, it has no eternal significance. What they have done in their lives may prove to be useful for a while, but one day, everything that pertains to this world will become obsolete.
However, this is where the work of believers is different. As believers, we have a risen Savior, and if we live our lives focused on serving Him, then no matter how big or how small our accomplishments are, they are important to Jesus. Believers don’t labor for things that perish, they labor for things of eternal value and significance. Our citizenship is in heaven and when Christ returns and everything else is done away with, only the things that were done for Him would have had any real value.
So if you are a believer in Jesus Christ, then you may feel insignificant at times, but know this, whatever you do for Him, is never worthless. In fact, it is the most worthwhile thing you could ever do.
-Shaun M. Hewlett