Sometimes faithful work feels daunting.
You work tirelessly, yet no one seems to notice. You give your heart, your mind and everything within you because you want to give your best, but the applause never comes. It feels as though no one sees you or cares. You hope that one day someone will look your way and truly appreciate you.
It may feel that way, but you are not unseen.
Hebrews 12 tells us that we are surrounded by “so great a cloud of witnesses”, people who have gone before us in faith. Their lives bear witness that God is faithful and that the race can be run with endurance. We stand on the fruit of their labour, and their example encourages us not to give up.
Whenever pain and darkness threaten to overwhelm you, and you wonder whether it is still worth it, remember that others have walked this path before you. They endured, and by God's grace, so will you.
The One whose encouragement rises above every witness is Christ Himself. He does not simply watch you from afar. He is praying and interceding for you. Scripture tells us that He always lives to make intercession for us. And if there is any prayer the Father hears, it is the prayer of His Son.
Jesus came as a man, walked the earth and experienced suffering and temptation. He understands our weaknesses and is our faithful High Priest. He sees you. He strengthens you and has given His Spirit to comfort and encourage you.
The applause of the people you can see cannot compare with the approval of God. His is the only applause that truly counts. He is the One who made you, sent you and to whom you will give an account.
Because of this, you can continue doing all He has called you to do, whether people approve of you or not. Even if no one else sees your faithful work on this side of eternity, God sees you. He will give you the strength to stand.
You are sent.
You are seen.
You are loved.