58 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
13 Be on your guard; stand firm in the faith; be courageous; be strong. 14 Do everything in love. 1 Corinthians 16:13-14
Observation:
In the last two chapters of 1 Corinthians Paul is challenging us twice “to stand firm” in our faith. He adds: “Be on guard, let nothing move you! Be courageous, be strong! Always give yourself fully to the work of the Lord! Do everything in love”. The first-century church in Corinth was young and vibrant but also plagued with many problems. Today too, the church faces many challenges. Paul reminds us that Jesus did conquer death and that therefore we have all the reason to be courageous and strong and not to let challenges and disappointments take away from our commitment and focus to serve Jesus.
Application:
In the middle of our struggles as Christians and as church Paul is encouraging us to fully give ourselves to Jesus and His work! It`s so easy to get discouraged! Just as the church in Corinth, I need today this encouragement to stand firm, to be strong, to be courageous and to keep serving and loving Jesus and people.
Prayer:
Thank you for this encouragement today. Jesus, you alone are worthy! Help me to give myself fully to you and to do everything with love today.
