"Be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your toil is not in vain in the Lord."  (1 Cor. 15:58)

The Christian, like anyone else, needs encouragement. Just because he has an access to God that sinners do not enjoy does not imply he is immune from discouragements. In fact, followers of Christ need to be encouraged more than the child of Satan because it takes more courage to do right than to do wrong.

The Scripture gives us such a verse in 1 Cor. 15:58. Paul, in finishing up his first letter to the brethren in Corinth, concludes his discussion on the topic of the resurrection begun in v. 12. There was some error being taught concerning the resurrection (v. 12), as well as speculations (vv. 35-44). The Holy Spirit, through the apostle, sought to alleviate any misunderstanding and give a final comforting thought to the Christians in Corinth regarding the subject of the resurrection.

"Therefore" in v. 58 suggests that what Paul is about to say is connected to what he has previously taught. If there was no resurrection from the dead, Paul likely would have taught, "Let us eat and drink; for tomorrow we die" (v. 32). Get all the gusto you can out of life, because you only go around once! However, the facts are undeniable and true. How should the resurrection give us purpose in life?

This means "hold firm." It describes one who is "anchored in the gospel" (Col. 1:23). The tense of the verb means "always be" or "keep being" steadfast. Faithful Christians never waver, but hold firm to their Lord.

This means "unable to put to flight." It is a synonym of being steadfast.

Simply doing enough to "get by" is not acceptable. It is also not enough to simply stand still, or "be present." We must always "abound" in the Lord's work, doing all we can. We must do His work, not our own. Our efforts "are not in vain in the Lord." They have purpose & meaning because of Him.

What gives our work permanence and success? The comforting resurrection.