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

Devotion

Labor Day gives us a moment to step back and reflect on the value of work. Whether it’s behind a desk, in a classroom, on a job site, or at home raising children, our daily efforts are part of a larger story—one that God sees and values. The Apostle Paul, writing to the church in Corinth, had just spent an entire chapter reminding believers of the hope we have in Christ’s resurrection. Then he ends with this challenge and encouragement: keep going, because your labor in the Lord matters.

Here are three powerful ways to apply this verse to our lives today:

1. Stand Firm — Don’t lose sight of why you work.
   Paul begins with “stand firm.” This is more than just enduring hard times—it’s about standing with confidence in your calling. Whether you’re working your dream job or struggling through something that feels routine or difficult, you can hold firm to the truth that God sees your faithfulness. Your work has purpose beyond paychecks and productivity. When your work is done with integrity and offered to the Lord, it carries eternal weight.
   
   
2. Let Nothing Move You — Stay faithful, even when it’s hard.
   “Let nothing move you.” Those four words speak to our tendency to give up or get discouraged. Sometimes, the work feels too hard. The hours are long, the results seem small, and recognition is rare. But Paul urges us not to waver. Keep showing up. Keep doing the right thing. Keep choosing kindness, even when it’s not returned. Keep investing in others, even when you don’t see immediate fruit. The God who raised Jesus from the dead is at work in you—and he is faithful to bring a harvest from your perseverance.
   
   
3. Give Yourself Fully — Work with joy and purpose.
   Paul closes by urging us to “always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord.” This isn’t about burnout or busyness. It’s about overflow. Giving yourself fully doesn’t mean working more hours—it means working with your whole heart, aware that you’re ultimately serving God. Whether you’re helping a customer, managing a team, making dinner, or volunteering at church, you are participating in the work of the Lord when you do it with love, excellence, and purpose.

This Labor Day, remember that your work—whether seen or unseen, paid or unpaid—is deeply significant when done for God. Don’t underestimate your small acts of faithfulness. Don’t forget the eternal impact of everyday obedience. As Paul reminds us, “your labor in the Lord is not in vain.” So, take a deep breath, rest today, and return tomorrow with a renewed heart—steadfast, unshaken, and ready to abound in the work God has given you to do.

PRAYER

Heavenly Father, thank you for the gift of work. Help us to stand firm in our calling, knowing our efforts are seen and valued by you. When work is hard, strengthen us to remain faithful. Fill us with your Spirit to work with joy and purpose, serving you in all we do. We rest in the promise that our labor in you is never in vain. Amen.

Lyn Watson
Pastor, People & Culture

Lyn Watson is responsible for Crossings staff to be seen, heard, loved, and known.

Resources

• Listen to Firm Foundation by Crossings Sanctuary Worship.
• Listen to Does Our Present Work Matter To God? 1 Corinthians 15:58 by N.T. Wright.

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