September 12 – Wholehearted service to God

“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.” – 1 Corinthians 15:58 

Scripture reading: 1 Corinthians 15:50-58

Death has been defeated. Christ, our Savior, has taken away God’s curse against your sin and has opened the way to life. In Jesus’ resurrection power, we are called to live out our Christian faith with boldness. In light of these facts, Christians are steadfast, resolved in heart and mind, to serve Jesus. Serving Jesus is not decided on a case-by-case basis depending on the circumstances. We will obey Jesus and live for Him, no matter what the day brings. Next, we are immovable: stubbornly prepared to serve Jesus rather than being swayed by the impulses and temptations of the world. We will do all that is required of us with joy. We are not ungenerous in our work, or sullen in our attitude. No! We are abounding in the work of the Lord knowing He has supplied and is supplying all our needs.

“Wait”, you might be protesting, “I don’t experience this!” Have you dedicated yourself fully in service to God, or are you 75% God’s and 25% serving yourself and your needs? Look at your life and consider what kind of fruit you are bearing. If you are selfish, worldly, or toying with being okay with your peers six days a week and one day a week appearing to be Christian, then you are not fully trusting in Jesus. A mentor to the North helps his mentee to discern areas of weakness, and by the strength of the Spirit shore these up. A good mentor celebrates every victory which his mentee experiences in Christ.

Suggestions for prayer

Ask the Father to give you patience as you mentor your children or your mentee; the faults that might bother you the most are likely ones you wrestle with yourself, so they’ll be obvious and perhaps painful. Ask for the grace of God to guide you in reconciling the work of Jesus through the power of the Holy Spirit.

Rev. Richard T. Vander Vaart and his wife Carolyn are now in their seventh year living in Moncton, NB. with Redemption Prison Ministry as a pastor in the Associate Reformed Presbyterian Church of Canada. Get this devotional delivered directly to your phone each day via our RP App. This devotional is made available by the Nearer To God Devotional team, who also make available in print, for purchase, at NTGDevotional.com