• While leaving a restaurant recently I paused and expressed my delight to the hostess for the delicious meal I had just eaten. Smilingly she said, "I'll mention that to our chef. I'm certain that he will be happy to hear that."
• Walking to my car I though about all of the people, who would dine in the restaurant that evening, enjoy their meals and never think of the many different individuals who contributed to their dinner. In fact, it would be practically impossible to list everyone who contributed to the meal: farmers, chemists, mechanical engineers, oil rig operators, carpenters...and the list goes on and on. We will never know nor will ever see or meet most of those who bring good things to our lives.
• Paul said, "...be strong and steady, and always enthusiastic about the Lord's work, for you know that nothing you do for the Lord is ever useless." What an encouraging reminder to all who serve God. Also, what we do for the Lord is to be done wholeheartedly, with complete dedication, with enthusiasm and excitement.
• It is easy to become discouraged or apathetic if we are not recognized, receive no awards or see many results for what we do. It is a struggle to find time to study a Sunday school lesson, be present for choir rehearsal after a long day at work or attend endless meetings. But, if we do what we do for the Lord, it is not useless and will bring joy into our lives.
• Prayer: Father, remind us frequently and challenge us constantly that we are Your servants in Your Kingdom doing Your work and it will always be useful. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
• Scripture for Today: 1 Corinthians 15:58 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.
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