Doing My Part

In review of 1 Corinthians 3:6-7 it says, “I planted the seeds, Apollos watered them, but God made them sprout and grow. What matters isn’t those who planted or watered, but God who made the plants grow."

Bottom Line:

We may plant, other may water, but God is the one who makes the plants sprout and grow.

What this means to me:

I may plant seeds, and another may water them, but it is God who makes them sprout and grow. What matters is what God does. I am only doing what He has asked me to do

In summary of 1 Corinthians 3, I see where Paul planted the seed of the Good News message in people's hearts. He was a missionary pioneer--he brought the message of salvation. Apollos came alongside and  watered the seed--he helped the believers grow stronger in the faith. Paul founded the church and Apollos built on that foundation. However, the believers in Corinth had split into factions, pledging loyalty to different teachers. God is the one who makes Christians grow. Paul was addressing their issue.

Today this verse reminds me that often I can get caught up in my own realm of self-recognition for what I do, especially at work. I often feel that I’m not appreciated or doing things that are really important.

What I’m learning is that God's work involves many different individuals with a variety of gifts and abilities. There are no superstars in this task, only team members performing their own special roles. I can become a useful member of God's team by setting aside my desires to receive glory for what I do. I shouldn't seek the praise that comes from people--its comparatively worthless. Instead, I should seek approval from God.

Afterall, I’m only God's servant through whom others can hear the Good News. I need to do the  work the Lord gave me to do. It's not important who does the planting, or who does the watering. What's important is that God makes the seed grown. The one who plants and the one who waters work together with the same purpose. Both will be rewarded for their own hard work. I am one of God's workers and God's field is out there.

I can be encouraged and not give up on my tomorrows. I should accept the good plan God has for me--a plan filled with hope, purpose, blessing and increase in every area of my life! And when the blessing comes, know that my heavenly Father is the one who sent it.

When I do my part, God does His. He has promised to meet my needs according to His riches in glory. I can call upon His mighty name and know that all of heaven rejoices as my ashes are turned into absolute beauty. No matter how shattered or broken life can get, He can heal my heart and gently place the pieces back together in Jesus’ name.