Work for a Prize

When the perishable has been clothed with the imperishable, and the mortal with immortality, then the saying that is written will come true: “Death has been swallowed up in victory.” “Where, O death, is your victory? Where, O death, is your sting?” The sting of death is sin, and the power of sin is the law. But thanks be to God! He gives us the victory through our Lord Jesus Christ. 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.

I Corinthians 15:54-58

 

Motivation is a funny thing. Often it is fleeting and fickle. Some say it is a law of physics – a body at rest tends to stay at rest. Others would say motivation is directly related to how desirable the prize is. In this passage, Paul says our prize is victory.

 

Yet success does not come without labor and sacrifice. The ultimate of which was the life, ministry, death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. But we cannot rest on His laurels.

 

Paul gives us two commands: stand firm and give ourselves fully to the work of the Lord. Be strong, letting nothing move us except the Holy Spirit. Work hard, for our labor is not meaningless. Follow Jesus in holding onto all His teachings about how to live our lives. Put our shoulder to the plow to continue His work in the world.

 

The power of sin will be overcome by the victory we have through Christ. The condemnation of the law is lifted and the grace of the Lord flows like a river over us. We find ourselves humbled and thankful to be a part of this imperishable victory.