By Gena Anderson
“But as for you, be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.”
2 Chronicles 15:7
I read this verse recently and was struck by the promise it holds. Sometimes we tire of doing the work. It’s difficult to keep pouring into a work that has yet to give back.
Parenting is exhausting and never-ending. There are glimpses of fruit over the years, but more often it’s a long-term investment for which we cannot yet see the reward. That doesn’t mean it doesn’t exist.
Serving, giving, and following a calling are not for the faint of heart. They are for the heart that is set on God and believes in his goodness in our lives. Sometimes, in those most exhausted moments even the most God-seeking heart grows weary of working.
The verse above was spoken to the God-honoring King of Judah, as God’s people faced attack. God had given them victory in battle but the attacks kept coming. These words were a reminder that the reward for their good work was coming, though their present state felt more like a punch in the gut than a pat on the back. Following this encouragement the King continued working to remove idols from the land and leading the people to honor God, and eventually God rewarded his work with rest from attack.
When we feel like giving up, it may be time to pause and rest, but it’s never time to stop doing good work. I love that God sees the big picture. We are spurred on by a pat on the back or a tangible earthly reward, but God is preparing to make us royalty. Your work, that work God has called you to, will have a reward that we cannot fully appreciate in this life. God may also make a way for earthly rewards to encourage us, but his purpose is eternal, and so is your reward.
Your work is worth it. Don’t give up.
