“According to the grace of God given to me, like a skilled master builder I laid a foundation, and someone else is building upon it. Let each one take care how he builds upon it. For no one can lay a foundation other than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ. Now if anyone builds on the foundation with gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, straw— each one’s work will become manifest, for the Day will disclose it, because it will be revealed by fire, and the fire will test what sort of work each one has done. If the work that anyone has built on the foundation survives, he will receive a reward. If anyone’s work is burned up, he will suffer loss, though he himself will be saved, but only as through fire…
“This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. It is required of stewards that they be found faithful… Each one will receive his commendation from God.” 1 Corinthians 3:10-15; 4:1-2,5b
It was Paul’s expectation that those in the church would work for the Lord. It was imperative they understand that He laid any foundation of faith, was in charge of the grace of gifting, and issued ministry calling. From then on, it was up to them to decide how they would employ their gifts. The Lord would supply their needs and ultimately judge the effort, quality, and stewardship of their building. (Romans 12:3-8)
Where has God called us to serve? What gifts and roles as church members has He clarified? With what attitude and vigor do we go about our assignments? Have we grown careless or lazy, choosing convenience over faithfulness, preference over what’s most needed? Have we become insular, retreating to serve alongside only our favorite people? Or are we eager, with grateful abandon, to offer ourselves as joy-filled stewards in the King’s service, wherever He calls? (Isaiah 6:8; Matthew 4:18-22)
“Two little lines I heard one day,
Travelling along life’s busy way;
Bringing conviction to my heart,
And from my mind would not depart;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past,
Only what’s done for Christ will last.
Only one life, yes only one,
Soon will its fleeting hours be done;
Then, in ‘that day’ my Lord to meet,
And stand before His Judgment seat.
Only one life, the still small voice,
Gently pleads for a better choice,
Bidding me selfish aims to leave,
And to God’s holy will to cleave.
Only one life, a few brief years,
Each with its burdens, hopes, and fears;
Each with its days I must fulfil.
Living for self or in His will.
Give me Father, a purpose deep,
In joy or sorrow Thy word to keep;
Faithful and true what e’er the strife,
Pleasing Thee in my daily life.
Oh let my love with fervor burn,
And from the world now let me turn;
Living for Thee, and Thee alone,
Bringing Thee pleasure on Thy throne.
Only one life, yes only one,
Now let me say, ‘Thy will be done’;
And when at last I’ll hear the call,
I know I’ll say ‘’twas worth it all’;
Only one life, ’twill soon be past,
Only what’s done for Christ will last.” ~C.T. Studd (1860-1931)
Lord, through my days, may my gifts be utilized and my lamp burn for Your kingdom and glory.
As the rain and snow 