It’s only reasonable to desire and expect some reward for the work we do. And while often there’s an immediate payoff for our sacrifices, this is not always the case and we must play the long game to see a full return on our investments. 

Naturally, a farmer expects to harvest a crop from the seeds he planted. And he probably wouldn’t keep planting if there were no hope of a return on his work. 

We approach much of our life and relationships this way as well.  

For example, we invest in our education and professional training with the hope of securing a job that allows us to earn a decent living to support our families. 

We make sacrifices for our wife and friends in part to receive a sense of love and belonging back from them. 

Likewise, we’re willing to pay many costs for our kids to give them the best chance at succeeding in life and to live faithfully before God. 

But, in all these areas, the return on our investment is rarely immediate. In fact, it might only come after years of doing the work, and perhaps much of this night work – work that doesn’t get immediate recognition. 

For instance, rarely do kids see or fully appreciate all the sacrifices their parents make on their behalf. And parents might also wonder if their many efforts have been worth it. But as a mature and faithful young adult starts to step out into the world, all the sleepless nights, dirty diapers, and rebellious years prove worth it. The return on their investment comes after years of planting, watering, and pruning. 

And this also holds true in our careers, marriage, friendships, and the like. Many small and otherwise mundane efforts eventually add up and payoff in a big way. 

Don’t lose heart. All your many sacrifices are not wasted. And at just the right time God will bring you a fruitful return on your investments.

Photo by Paz Arando on Unsplash

Dr. Corey Carlisle

Dr. Corey Carlisle

Licensed marriage and family therapist and certified sex therapist - providing Christian counseling and soul care to individuals and couples, with a special emphasis on developing the masculine soul. Suwanee, GA 30024

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