Part of a Chain

I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. So neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow. - 1 Corinthians 3:6-7

Last month was special because it was the anniversary of the first new believer’s baptism that I helped with. Three of us waded into that lake with that incredible high school kid as the rain started coming down on us.

If you’re wondering how three people baptized one person, it required some maneuvering, and it was awkward. But it was perfect, because each one of us had walked with him toward accepting Jesus’ salvation in different ways.

And we weren’t the only ones who had been part of his journey. Many had come before us, praying over each home in that city as they walked the streets, or traveling through for just a few weeks to share the gospel. Without the work they did, would my work have made an impact? Every person had a part in his journey, planting a question here or watering a thought there, and none of us were there for every moment of it.

Only God was there for everything, making him grow, softening his heart, speaking to the seeds in the dark of the night, and listening to the first confession of sin and request for help.

I had the privilege of witnessing the decision and the baptism, but I was simply one link in a chain of many of God’s workers, and so are you. I don’t know what seeds you’re planting or where you are watering, but as you do so, honor those who have come before and pray for those who will come after.

We do not work for the Lord alone, but alongside many others who have worked the ground, some doing impressive, big things, and some doing behind the scenes pruning that no one but God will see. Both are worthy of honor, and neither happens of our own accord. So let us not grow prideful if we are part of the big moments or discouraged if we are part of the “small” moments, but trust the God who makes things grow, and thank him for both our part and for the other links in the chain.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the privilege of being a link in your chains of gospel work. Help me to faithfully do my part in passing on your good news, whether the part seems big or small.

Throughout this day: Listen to, or sing along with, this gospel chorus: Pass It On with lyrics