Pastor Stephen Dedman

But by the grace of God I am what I am, and His grace toward me was not in vain; but I labored more abundantly than they all, yet not I, but the grace of God which was with me.
‭‭I Corinthians‬ ‭15‬:‭10‬

In 1 Corinthians 15, the apostle Paul reflects on the power of God’s grace in his life. Despite his past persecutions on the Church, Paul acknowledges that it is only by God’s grace that he is who he is. He attributes his labor and achievements to the grace of God working within him.

It is by God’s grace that we are who we are. We need to realize that our abilities, achievements, and even our very existence are granted by God’s grace. This acknowledgment should motivate us to labor and live abundantly, not in our strength alone but empowered by God’s grace.

Whether in our relationships, work, or personal growth, we need to recognize that any success or progress is a manifestation of God’s grace at work in and through us. As we labor, may it be a response to the grace that has not been in vain.

Pray

Lord, thank You for Your incredible grace that has shaped me. Help me to be fully aware that it is by Your grace that I am who I am today. Let my actions be a testimony to Your transformative power. In Jesus’ name, amen.

For by Him all things were created that are in heaven and that are on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or powers. All things were created through Him and for Him.
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭1‬:‭16‬

Colossians 1:16 is a powerful declaration of the sovereignty of Christ. In this passage, Paul affirms that all things were created through Christ and for Him. It emphasizes Christ’s role as the divine agent of creation and underscores His supreme authority over all aspects of the universe, both visible and invisible.

Understanding that all things were created by Christ and for Christ has a profound impact for our lives. It reminds us that our existence is not random or purposeless but a divine plan of God. As creatures made in the image of God, we find our ultimate fulfillment and meaning in Christ.

This truth should challenge us to align our lives with God’s purposes and priorities. Instead of living for ourselves or pursuing worldly ambitions, we are called to live in surrender to Christ, acknowledging His lordship over every area of our lives. This includes our relationships, careers, possessions, and ambitions. When we recognize Christ as the center of our existence, we are freed from the bondage of self-centeredness and empowered to live with purpose and passion.

Pray

Lord, I praise You for Your majesty and sovereignty. Help me to live with a deep awareness of Your lordship over my life, surrendering every area to Your control. May I find fulfillment and joy in serving You and advancing Your kingdom here on earth. In Jesus’ name, amen.

And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ.
‭‭Colossians‬ ‭3‬:‭23‬-‭24‬

It can be easy to view our work, whether it be our careers, at home, or in our communities, as mere obligations. However, the words of Paul call us to a higher perspective, reminding us that every endeavor can be an act of worship when done with the right heart.

The Apostle Paul begins by encouraging us to do whatever we do “heartily.” In other words, we are called to approach our tasks with passion, enthusiasm, and dedication. Whether it’s our job, our chores, or our volunteer work, we should do it with all our heart, as if we’re doing it for the Lord Himself.

When we work, serve, or create, we’re not merely doing it for our bosses, our families, or society’s approval. We are doing it as an offering to the Lord. This transforms the mundane into the sacred.

These verses remind us that our ultimate audience is not human beings. While we may seek approval and recognition from others, our primary focus should be on pleasing the Lord. When we work with this mindset, the fear of human criticism or favoritism fades away.

Here’s the beautiful promise – when we work as unto the Lord, we will receive the reward of the inheritance. Our labor is not in vain. God sees our efforts, and in His time and according to His plan, He will reward us. This reward isn’t just in the here and now but extends into eternity.

Ultimately, our work is an act of service to Christ Himself. Every task, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, becomes an opportunity to express our love and devotion to our Savior. When we serve others, we are, in essence, serving the Lord.

So, today, as you face your responsibilities and tasks, remember that your work matters to God. It is an act of worship, an offering of love, and a means to serve the Jesus Christ. Approach your work heartily, with dedication, and with the knowledge that you are working for an eternal reward.

Pray

Lord, help me to approach my daily tasks with dedication and enthusiasm, knowing that I am working as unto You. Let my work be an act of worship and service to You, and help me find joy in knowing that my labor is not in vain. In Jesus’ name, amen.