From Anna Adkins:
In Paul’s letter to the church of Corinth he encouraged them to “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
As small group leaders at NCC this encouragement is for you! There’s profound wisdom embedded within this passage that we can unpack. Let’s delve into it.
The word “steadfast” can be defined as patient endurance. In today’s fast-paced society, the qualities of patience and endurance may seem scarce. Our culture often prioritizes immediacy and quick results. I have heard discipleship defined as “a long obedience in the same direction”, it’s a deliberate and gradual process. Ministry to others is not a one-stop, drive-thru, microwave investment! Discipleship is slow, deep, and relational. It takes work, intention and time.
Paul also encourages the Corinthian church to “abound in the work of the Lord” or give themself fully to it. Work is implied in ministry, it won’t necessarily come easily. I love how it says “work IN the Lord”. It reminds me of Ephesians 3:20, “Now to Him who is able to do immeasurably more than all that we ask or imagine, ACCORDING TO HIS POWER that is at work within us.” God is the one who enables us as we walk obediently with Him. That puts my heart at rest, knowing it isn’t up to me – I walk faithfully, He empowers me and He also produces the results.
“Your labor is not in vain”! Isn’t that sweet encouragement? It may sometimes feel like your investment in the people God has put in your small group is bearing no fruit. Ministry is messy! People come with baggage, they don’t show up, sometimes they don’t participate or finish their study. Ministry is messy because people are messy, WE all are messy. Praise God that He is working to sanctify all of us, He isn’t finished with us yet! That sanctification process may look different for everyone. You may have heard it said that it takes a person hearing the gospel 3 to 16 times before they respond. We know that in scripture people heard the gospel for the first time and responded. The point is, everyone is different and will respond differently to God’s work in them. So, we can trust God with his timing and be patient, steadfast and faithful knowing that He is at work cultivating the seeds under the surface even when we may not see the fruit.
In conclusion, let’s embrace the timeless counsel of Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, recognizing its relevance in our roles as small group leaders at NCC. In a culture that prizes immediacy, let’s embody steadfastness, understanding that discipleship is a journey of patient endurance—a commitment to continual growth rather than quick fixes. Let’s fully devote ourselves to the work of the Lord, knowing that our efforts are not wasted. God’s power works within us, achieving far beyond what we can envision. Though ministry may present challenges and progress may appear slow, let’s trust in God’s timing and sovereignty. He is faithfully at work, nurturing seeds of growth and transformation, even when we cannot yet see the fruit. As we persist in faithfulness and perseverance, let’s find our hope in the assurance that our contributions, no matter how seemingly small, are meaningful in God’s grand design!
How can you show steadfastness/patient endurance with the people in your small group this week?
Small Group Leadership 