The Bible tells me that I should not get weary from doing well, that I should not fret over seeing immediate results, the fruits of my labor, or even just the difference I may be making in this world. Our devotional today is an encouragement about this, and reminder that He does know our labors, He does see our dedication and commitment (not to mention our yearn to follow His will), and He does have a time for each of us.
Many times, it feels like 'I am alone' on the journey with the Lord, and there are rarely other 'like fellow' travelers on this path. But, I remember that the scriptures 'do' say that "...straight is the way, and narrow the path that leads to life everlasting", which is to remind us that His calling on our lives is a personal and intimate one. It is not a family thing, or a group thing, but a personal walk with Him. Oddly, it is both a privilege and a perilous path. And, those who walk this calling with all their heart are 'kept' by the Lord. In 1 Kings 8:23, before the entire congregation of Israel, Solomon proclaimed; "...Lord God of Israel, there is no God like thee, in heaven above, or on earth beneath, who keepest covenant and mercy with thy servants that walk before thee with all their heart."
Personally, it feels and seems presumptuous to think I might have anything of value to share or add to life around me, but I am regularly reminded that 'what' the Lord does through me is not nearly as important to me as 'that' He does things through me. We are not to worry about how (or even IF) the message is received; ours is to be prepared, ready, and willing. In fact, Galations 5:22-23 reads; "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, (23) Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law." Fruit seems to be the key.
A young plant does not bear fruit, or if it does, it will likely be bitter and under-developed. A mature plant that is well grounded, properly nurtured (watered, fed, pruned) will ultimately yield a vast bounty of fruit. But, as the Bible reads; "...like a tree planted by the waters, I shall not be moved." Inanimate objects don't have the freedom and will that we have, and we must 'choose' to remain on this seemingly thankless path... grounded... rooted. For, our reward and recognition is not coming from man (they will enjoy the fruit), but from our Lord. Seems trite and maybe something if an empty promise, but as we trust Him whole heartedly, His Spirit does fill us with Joy, Peace, and Assurance. His work is hidden in you now, maybe... but will be abundant fruit soon! You will not need to 'toot your own horn', for the fruit will bear witness... others will see.