So then neither he who plants is anything, nor he who waters, but God who gives the increase. 1 Corinthians 3:7
Taking his thought from the preceding verse, Paul shows that though he “planted” and Apollos “watered” their efforts were but nothing. Instead, it is “God who gives the increase.” This is a comparative verse where their accomplished works are put in relation to the continued unfolding of what God has accomplished, is accomplishing, and will accomplish through the plan He has so wisely ordained.
Paul is not saying that he (and thus we) shouldn’t work. Nor is he saying that what we do isn’t worth note in and of itself. We know this is so because in just another verse he is going to speak about rewards for the work we do, work which includes what he is speaking of now. But even this shows the supremacy of what God is doing. If we are rewarded by God, then it demonstrates that what we have done was a part of what God had ordained. In other words, the things we accomplish were set in His mind as a part of His unfolding plan.
And so, in a comparative sense, what we do is to be counted as nothing in relation to what His plan fully involves. From seed to mature tree, everything in the process which the foresters participated in and which was beneficial was a part of producing God’s finished product; a product which started from the seed, nutrients, and water He originally created and which He continues to increase. Take to heart these words from Ecclesiastes 5:18-20 –
“Here is what I have seen: It is good and fitting for one to eat and drink, and to enjoy the good of all his labor in which he toils under the sun all the days of his life which God gives him; for it is his heritage. As for every man to whom God has given riches and wealth, and given him power to eat of it, to receive his heritage and rejoice in his labor—this is the gift of God. For he will not dwell unduly on the days of his life, because God keeps him busy with the joy of his heart.”
Life application: All that we do and all that we accomplish is actually a gift of God. If it is a gift, then it came from Him and boasting is excluded. Likewise, praise for the work of another is to be acknowledged as ultimately from the Lord. By keeping these things in perspective, then we will rightly direct all praise, boasting, and adoration to the ultimate Source of what is done.
Lord God, why should I be disheartened by a job that seems menial? Why should I be frustrated by low pay, having an old car, or wearing a uniform when I work? My life is a gift from You and You have directed my steps. If what I do is a gift, then being upset with it would bring discredit on the Giver. May it never be so! Help me to be content with all things and yet to strive forward to improve my lot through Your good graces. I love You and thank You for all You have given me. Amen.