Not in Vain

May 1, 2022 | by Pastor Josh Tate | series: Missions Emphasis

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In the Revolutionary War a young teacher and spy for the Continental Army, named Nathan Hale, was caught by the British for spying and he was subsequently hung. His last words were “My only regret is that I have but one life to give for my country.” I remember reading that in a history book when I was a boy and being very impressed by his courage and commitment. I also remember thinking what a waste it would have been for him to die like that if, in the end, the war had been lost. I’m willing to bet that Benedict Arnold and not the likes of Nathan Hale would be celebrated in our history books if the British had won. Luckily for us, the cause for which Nathan Hale died did succeed, and we have been blessed to enjoy the freedoms that he and others purchased for us at so great a cost.

My point is this, as we embark into missions emphasis month here at State Road we should know that no sacrifice we make, and nothing we do in support of the great cause in which the church is invested will be wasted because Victory has been guaranteed. Jesus said, “I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” (Matthew 16:18)

If the British had won Nathan Hale would be unknown to us, but they didn’t so his sacrifice is celebrated generations afterward. If Satan were to win this great cosmic battle, then whatever sacrifices you have made for the advance of the kingdom would be wasted and forgotten, but because Jesus has promised the coming victory we are bold and generous. As 1 Corinthians 15:58 says, “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain.” Your labor is not in vain— your giving is not in vain— your suffering and sacrifice and prayers are not in vain because Jesus wins!!!