Dedicated to Serving the Lord

Therefore, my beloved brethren, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord.  -I Corinthians 15:58 (NKJV) 

Many years ago I was acquainted with a fellow pastor in the community and he spoke often of his desire to leave the church in which he was presently serving.  He told me how that he had interviewed with a number of pulpit committees, but nothing ever came of the interviews and he was never considered.  I began to inquire about the kinds of questions the committees were asking and how he had answered.  He stated that a question that invariably came up involved his daily routine and personal study habits.  His response was that he rarely kept office hours at the church preferring instead to do the bulk of his studying at home in a recliner.  I gently told him that answer might be problematic.   

My colleague’s study habits sounded more like being retired than being a full-time pastor.  This apparently gave the impression to prospective pulpit committees that the pastor was not of a mind to work too hard.  Until he changed that perception he was going to have problems.  Paul the Apostle challenged the Corinthian believers to be steadfast in their work and commitment to the Lord.  They were called by God to work with great dedication, for sincere labor in God’s kingdom is never done in vain.  Let us be careful to not neglect our families in our zeal for the Lord, but rather let us seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto us (Matthew 6:33).  When we place Christ first He will give us wisdom for setting priorities in all aspects of our lives. 

This call is for the pastor, the layperson, the volunteer, those who serve on church committees, sing in the choir, help with the children, or pray for the sick.  Wherever the Lord has called us to serve, let us serve Him with integrity and dedication.  Do not fear hard work in the kingdom of God. 

No matter who you are, you have gifts and talents that can be of tremendous service in God’s kingdom.  Serving the Lord and sharing the love of Jesus is our highest honor and privilege.   

Look to Jesus and serve Him with gladness and commitment.