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Not
all the Christian life is a "bed of roses". In fact
very little of it is, for Satan is trying everything in his
power to discourage and weary us from "well-doing" (Gal.
6:9). He wants us to feel like we are unloved and
unappreciated. He knows if he can convince us that our
fellowman, brethren, and even God does not care for the work
and labor we are doing, then there is a good chance we will
quit. And he watches us go down hill from there regarding our
spiritual life. Part of the Christian life is realizing God
does indeed care. And not only God, but our brethren as well,
(at least the ones who are truly brethren). Our Father is
interested in the work we are doing; not because of its
benefits to Him, but because of its benefits to us.
God does not "need" anything we can give Him. He
does not need our money, sacrifices, time, or even love. He is
completely and totally self-sufficient. We are the ones that
benefit from our work. For example, it is to my good if I take
the time to assemble with the brethren, and when my good works
are helping glorify God, (1
Pet. 2:12) it is to my advantage. God knows that.
Therefore I can be of invaluable asset to my brethren as well.
Not only can I help teach, learn, and guide, but the very fact
I am a brother gives them an opportunity to serve me as well.
In turn this helps them please the Master. Part of my love for
the brethren is allowing them to serve me when I am in need,
(and how many of us are never in need?). Isn't it arrogant of
me to offer to serve my brother and not allow him an
opportunity to serve me? Am I so strong I don't need help? (1
Cor. 10:12 "Therefore
let him who thinks he stands lest he fall.").
Consider our labor for the world. Though most in the world
does not acknowledge or appreciate our love toward them, our
love is never wasted. At the very least it may be observed by
a few who are truly searching for an answer to their life.
Through us and our answer they may find it. At the most, it
helps us grow and mature into a more perfect image of Christ.
With these thoughts in mind, is our love in any way wasted?
The Father cares and is concerned about how we labor with our
love. Our brethren are appreciative and thankful for our part
in their development. And some in the world may see our
example and "glorify God
in the day of visitation" (1
Pet. 2:12). And of those in the world who are not
interested; remember the world hated Christ first.
Gal. 6:9 "Let us not grow weary in well-doing, for in due
season we shall reap if we do not lose heart."
Jay
Graham
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