Wise words from John Calvin for anyone doing any sort of labor for the Lord, such as pastoring, parenting, leading a small group, teaching in children’s ministry, etc.
Let pastors learn from Paul’s example, not only to admonish and exhort their people, but to entreat the Lord to bless their labours, that they may not be unfruitful. Nothing will be gained by their industry and toil, – all their study and application will be to no purpose, except so far as the Lord bestows his blessing. This ought not to be regarded by them as an encouragement to sloth. It is their duty, on the contrary, to labour earnestly in sowing and watering, provided they, at the same time, ask and expect the increase from the Lord. (Calvin’s Commentary on Ephesians 1:14)
