Reflecting the Glory | 1 Corinthians 15:58 | Devotional

I Corinthians 15:58
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.

This passage is found at the end of Paul’s discussion on the resurrection. After explaining the difference between the natural and spiritual body, he proclaims, “Death has been swallowed up in victory” and notes that this victory comes “through our Lord Jesus Christ.” Based on the eternal resurrected life, Paul leaves the church with this charge.

When we live life looking only at the small map of our present experience, things can seem pretty dreary. We get sick. We lose jobs. Disappointments set us back. Discouragement throws us for an unexpected loop. Relationships take work and still end up strained. Dreams mock us. We stand weakened. Our emotions are tossed this way and that. We feel our spiritual tank to be empty. We feel our spiritual labor is for naught. But all that changes when we turn to the unfathomable map of eternity. Death is overcome. Every tear is wiped away. Our dreams are fully realized. The purpose for disappointment and discouragement is understood. Relationships are perfect. We see Jesus face to face.

The “secret” to standing firm is simple-just be sure you are looking at the right map.

Father, many reading this are facing real difficulties and challenges today. Please do your work in their hearts. Encourage the discouraged. Replace anxiety with peace. Restore relationships. Provide needed jobs. Help us to dream your dreams. Put in front of us the map of eternity and help us to give ourselves fully to your work during our brief time on this earth. In Jesus’ name. Amen.