Communion and Love: A Believer’s LifestyleSample

Be steadfast

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.

Because Christ’s resurrection is a reality, because Christ triumphed over death, because we have the sure hope of resurrection, Paul charges the much-loved brothers and sisters in Corinth to be steadfast, immovable, and always abounding in God’s work. 

Things will get difficult. There will be persecution and hardship. Life will be full of tribulation. But we should endure, persevere, and refuse to throw in the towel, for the risen Christ has triumphed.

Be undeterred and unwavering, for Christ has triumphed over sin and death. Abound in the work of God always. Decide that you will go all-out for the Savior for the rest of your days, no matter what.

In his August 23, 2006 High Octane for the Mind newsletter, pastor and writer Dwight Edwards talked about an example of relentless perseverance:

William Carey translated the Bible into over 40 different Indian dialects from 1793 to 1834. Though he never graduated even high school, Carey became one of the greatest linguists the world has ever known. 

This Englishman overcame tremendous obstacles and setbacks during his years in India, including the destruction of his home and much of his translation work in a great fire. But he kept pressing on. Shortly before he died, he gave out his secret for success: 

If, after my removal, anyone should think it worth his while to write my life, I will give you a criterion by which you may judge its correctness. If he will give me credit for being a plodder, he will describe me justly. Anything beyond this will be too much. I can plod. I can persevere in any definite pursuit. To this I owe everything.

William Carey exemplifies the spirit of Paul’s charge: Be steadfast, be immovable, and always abound in God’s work.