Key Text: "If in this life only we have hope in Christ, we are of all men most miserable." 1 Corinthians 15:19 KJV
        
There are many Christians whose hope are not beyond this life, for they serve not the Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly. Such people whose hope in Christ ends here on earth should be pitied, because they are of all men most miserable. Their suffering in hell will be worse than those who did not believe in Christ, the only way to the Father. Irrespective of what they are doing for the Lord, they are wasting their time.

What is the point of running up and down in the name of the Lord, if all you will receive is earthly reward? If you are wise, you will notice that one does not need Christ to gain the world. A Christian maybe wealthy but there are wealthier unbelievers so why should anyone serve Christ for wealth or any other worldly attainment. In fact, it profits a man nothing, if he shall gain the whole world and lose his own soul.

It is a waste of time and life to work for the Lord without preparing for heaven. The crown of righteousness is laid up for only those who love the sudden appearance of the Lord Jesus Christ. Brethren, be en-couraged as you serve the Lord faithfully, always abounding in the work of the Lord, forasmuch as ye know that your labour is not in vain in the Lord. Repent today and serve the Lord in truth.

Prayer: O Lord, I do not want to labour in vain; help me to prepare for heaven, in Jesus’ name. Amen. 

Reflection: And the world passeth away, and the lust thereof: but he that doeth the will of God abideth forever - 1 John 2:17.