Consistently Work Hard for the Lord

“Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, 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 NIV

In a story titled “Chasing goals: Local runner makes strides of progress,” it was reported that 45-year-old 

April Norman completed her goal of running a mile under six minutes by finishing fourth in the women’s division of the Masters Mile at the Yakima Mile on Saturday with a time of 5 minutes and 44 seconds. For Norman, running has been a nearly lifelong interest. Since her dad was also a runner, Norman began running track in middle school, and then ran cross country in high school and college. Since her time as a collegiate athlete, Norman has been raising her three sons and working as a seventh-grade science teacher at Franklin Middle School. But along the way, she has continued running, training six to seven days a week and competing in various local races. “It’s that something that’s consistent in my life,” Norman said. “It’s that go-to, my quiet time, my time to pray, time to think things over, time to just have some time to myself.”

And you know, when it comes to consistency in our Christian lives, the Bible tell us that we are to stand firm, letting nothing move us, and to always give ourselves fully to the work of the Lord—knowing that our labor in the Lord is not in vain. In fact, this pattern of wholeheartedly following and serving God despite the obstacles, trials, tribulations, and troubles that we will face along the way should be “something that’s consistent” in the life of every believer. Followers of Christ should be known for both their love and their steadfast and persistent work. 

So vow to work hard each and every day my friend, knowing that the things we do for the Kingdom will have benefits both now and for eternity. And don’t think that there will ever be a shortage of work, because the harvest is plentiful and the workers are few. 

Heavenly Father, thank You for giving us the awesome privilege of being coworkers with You. Lord, help us to understand that time is short and we must be found busy upon your return. Help us to gain dividends on the time, talents, and treasures You have entrusted us with here on earth that we might one day hear the words, “Well done good and faithful servant.” It’s in your precious name we pray Jesus. Amen. 

Happy Running!