Paul gives in his final exhortations of 1 Corinthians four ingredients to make irresistible disciples. " Wake up!" That is, stay vigilant. Be on the alert. "Stand up!" Seize what is already yours! Retain it. Don't let it go! Don't go back on what God has already given you! "Grow up!" Is the trend in your life and actions moving toward an increased likeness to Jesus? And "pray it up!" Tough times lay ahead. We need the Spirit of God at work in our lives, strengthening us. All four of these commands are to be done drenched in the atmosphere of unconditional, self-sacrificing, God-enabled love we just read a few weeks back in chapter 13.

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A life devoted to God and His work is not wasted. By focusing our lives on living for Jesus, becoming like Jesus, telling all peoples in all places about Jesus and demonstrating Him in the way we live, we ensure our lives have eternal significance. Everything done for the Lord, no matter how small, is meaningful and contributes to a rich, fulfilling existence. Therefore, devote yourself fully to God's work, live selflessly, and share the Gospel, knowing that nothing done for His glory is ever wasted.

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