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 Corinthians 15:58 (ESV)
Each year, I pick a word or theme for the coming months. Hope, faith, courage, joy, or other qualities on which I want to focus my attention have had their turn. This year, my word is diligence. It’s not a fun sort of word—not the kind of theme that evokes confetti and streamers and upbeat music. But it’s a theme that’s become important to me.
When I work on writing a novel, I face the daunting task of composing and refining several hundred pages. To help make consistent progress, I break the job into smaller goals.
Last summer I labored to finish one good page each day to ultimately complete a manuscript. There were many days when I was tempted to believe the labor was in vain. Although it often seemed impossible, one day in early autumn, the final page was done. I was so glad I’d persisted.
Being steadfast is vital as we follow Jesus long term. We keep praying for the family member who doesn’t accept Christ, even when years pass with- out glimmers of change.
We keep volunteering at our local congregation, even though our efforts often seem to bring insignificant results. We give voice to our songs of praise, even when our throats are thick with tears. In Mere Christianity, C. S. Lewis wrote, “That is why the little decisions you and I make every day are of such infinite importance. The smallest good act today is the capture of a strategic point from which, a few months later, you may be able to go on to victories you never dreamed of.” Being “steadfast” or diligent may not sound exciting, but Jesus can grow extravagant fruit from quiet faithfulness.
Faith Step: Think about a long-term project in your life. Ask Jesus to reassure you that your work is not in vain, and ask His help in making you steadfast and diligent.
