I Corinthians 3:6-9 "6 I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. 7 So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. 8 The one who plants and the one who waters have one purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor. 9 For we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building."
Many years ago, I learned this scripture. But I didn't get the full grasp of it at the time. You see we are to work together in faith. I use to quote just verse 6 but missed the importance of the other verses. I have a purpose in everything that I do. Be it planting the seed of faith or watering it. My job goes hand in hand with the other person's. Often we sit and wonder if something we've said or done has made a difference. If we are speaking words that are landing on the ground. Here's what I've learned - plant the seed or water the seed, the growth is not yours.
When we go out to witness to people, we often want to see or hear of their repentance and/or conversion. Don't miss understand, there is nothing wrong with wanting to see someone accept Jesus nor seeing one come back to their First Love. However, if you are only sticking around to see if your works have made an impact, then you are missing the point. It's not up to you. The vessel you are speaking to, preaching to, worshiping with, fasting for does NOT belong to you. I truly believe witnessing could be so much easier if we didn't want to reap the rewards, to have a "pat" on the back for the work we've done. Your reward is in Heaven if you hear Him say, "Well done, My good and faithful servant."
In my readings, teachings, and study, I've learned that there is but one with total authority. His name is Jesus. It is Jesus that went down to hell and took the keys before ascending to heaven and sitting on the right hand of the Father. It is our God whom has total power. It is our Father that controls all things. So, let's stop trying to be the one that gives the increase.
Some people are seeing this pandemic as God's judgement. I don't believe that. I think man created this virus and has let it get out of control (yes, that is my honest opinion). I also believe that God will come and wipe it out when He's ready. What is He waiting on? I don't know but I do know that those of us that call ourselves His should have heard His call to action. What action? PRAYER!!! If you don't have a prayer life, get one!! I pray throughout the day, constantly asking God questions and ever learning to wait in the silence for an answer. Some answers come immediately, others, I have a harder time hearing. Not because they weren't delivered but due to my question on whether I heard God correctly.
Listen, for most of us, this is a scary time. Many of us are unsure of what tomorrow will bring. Know this above all else, God's love is unwavering. He isn't here to hurt or scorn you. During this time, it is our responsibility to grow closer in relationship with God. Pay attention here. One planted the seed - maybe you've attended a church service online recently that has you asking questions. That is the planting. One waters. So now you are asking someone you know questions about God. GOOD! This is the watering of the seed that was planted during the service. God gives the increase. The more time you spend with Him the more you learn of Him, the more your relationship grows.
I remember when I first started going to church. I was so embarrassed because at 30 years old, I didn't know the books of the bible or the sayings of those around me. I felt awkward and out of my element. the devil was constantly in my ear telling me that these church folk wouldn't accept me. But, the seed that had been planted in me as a child, was craving the water. So I stayed in the church God sent me to (God Bless the City of Refuge, Manassas, VA). It was here, that He began my growth. It was during this time that my thirst for God grew. Now the small faith that I had has blossomed and tells me God can, God will, God shall. I don't doubt that He has my best interest in mind, even when it doesn't look like it. Just today, I was about to do something and I heard Him say stop. I stopped. God is in control, yesterday, today, and tomorrow.
I'm here today to encourage you to TRUST God!!! Above anything, anyone, things seen and unseen. Above those feelings and emotions that want to rock us to and fro. Above what the economy looks like, our finances look like, our cupboards look like. Trust GOD!!! His ways are higher than our ways. He sees the tomorrow that you can't see.
Be A Blessing and NOT Just Blessed
- - Nakya