Page 6 - Lenten Devotional 2021 updated 01-21

Introduction

6 I planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. 7 So
neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God,
who makes things grow. 8 The one who plants and the one who waters have one
purpose, and they will each be rewarded according to their own labor. 9 For
we are co-workers in God’s service; you are God’s field, God’s building.
1 Corinthians 3:6-9 New International Version (NIV)

Each one of us has a purpose dwelling within our souls. Your purpose
may be supporting students in their academic career, helping the sick in
hospitals, singing in worship, sharing laughter with others, performing
dance, being creative, or offering ministry. Whatever the purpose, many
of us have already begun the process of releasing it. That could mean
that we enrolled in school to develop our skills or got hired at a company
to provide specific services. On the other hand, we could be the one to
nurture development in others around us, by leading, teaching, or
mentoring.

Either way, we would be like the one who planted the seed or Apollos
who watered the seed. No matter which role we play, the fulfillment of
purpose comes through the power of God.

I Corinthians warns us not to become full of ourselves in the absence of
God’s power. God has the ability and the propensity to cause all seeds to
grow. First, we must plant a seed or water it. At the same time, we are
reminded that for planting or watering, we will be rewarded according to
our efforts. Each of us has a reward. The woman who develops her
talents has her reward. Likewise, the man who mentors the development
in others has his reward.

The sum of those combined efforts creates a culinary masterpiece with
the special sauce of God’s power and direction. A beautiful meal comes
to completion only with the hand of The Master Chef. In order for us to
enjoy this beautiful meal, we have to be divine sous chefs, prepping the

A 40-day Journey through a Season of Fasting and Praying 8