A Word for Workers

As VBS week approaches, I have been thinking more about the WORK of the Christian life. Sometimes it can feel tedious and even, at times, like we're spinning our wheels in vain. But God gently reminded me today that our MOTIVATION is what makes the difference between legalistic, duty-based efforts versus grace-soaked, heartfelt service.

"I tell you this, brothers: flesh and blood cannot inherit the kingdom of God, nor does the perishable inherit the imperishable. Behold! I tell you a mystery. We shall not all sleep, but we shall all be changed, in a moment, in the twinkling of an eye, at the last trumpet. For the trumpet will sound, and the dead will be raised imperishable, and we shall be changed. For this perishable body must put on the imperishable, and this mortal body must put on immortality. When the perishable puts on the imperishable, and the mortal puts on immortality, then shall come to pass the saying that is written: "Death is swallowed up in victory." "O death, where is your victory? O death, where is your sting?" The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God, who gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. THEREFORE(my emphasis), 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 15:50-58 ESV)

Notice the "therefore." Why do we work? Why is it that our labor is not in vain?

Because of the victory that Jesus has given us over death!
Because our sins cannot curse us to hell anymore.
Because death was swallowed up by His death.
Because death has lost it's venom to poison our souls.
Because the law is powerless to condemn us through Jesus.
Because we will receive knew everlasting, never-decaying bodies.
Because in Christ we will inherit the kingdom.
Because He loved us enough to give us this good news.
Because other people need this good news just like we did.
Because we have every reason in the world to work til He comes back.

Stay motivated, fellow workers! In the midst of the planning, decorating, shopping, singing, jumping, shouting, corralling, and, yes, even going a little crazy at times, make time to stay in the Word and remember the "why" behind your work. It is not in vain. You are appreciated. You are loved more than you know. You are part of something much bigger than you understand. You are blessed.