Today’s Reading | 1 Corinthians 3
Measure of Success
There is an encouraging phrase in today’s reading. Did you notice it? This book was written to a church that had several problems. From this chapter we learn that there was jealousy and quarreling among them. One of the issues was a dispute over Paul and Apollos. Some felt superior because they had been saved through Paul’s ministry, while those who had been saved through Apollos’ felt they were superior. To counter the jealousy, Paul gave them principles to guide them. One of the principles is found in verse eight, in the phrase, “according to his own labor.” This phrase teaches us that the results of someone’s ministry, or his impact on others lives, is in God’s hands alone. God alone determines the results someone has in the lives of people. We should not be jealous of God’s spiritual blessing in another’s life. You may have watered the seed, but someone else planted it, and someone else still will harvest it. If you are doing the best you can, trust God with the outcome. We are responsible to be faithful in the areas God has asked us to serve in. We need to trust Him with the results. The only standard you must measure up to is God’s.
Today’s Questions
Say What?
In what ways can God use you to “plant” a seed?
So What?
In what ways can God use you to “water” a seed?
Now What?
What are some examples from your life in which you did the planting or watering but God used someone else to make it grow?
Then What?
In light of this passage, what personal commitment can you make?