READ: 1 CORINTHIANS 3:5-9; 2 PETER 3:9; 1 JOHN 4:19

Have you ever worked behind the scenes in a theater production? Much of the work that goes into making a show great—designing the set, moving set pieces during the performance, timing special effects, running the sound systems, doing cast members’ makeup and hair, etc.—is not seen or noticed by the audience. All the audience sees is the successful show, not what goes on behind the closed curtains.

God often does a lot of behind-the-scenes work too.

Have you ever been praying for someone and felt discouraged when you didn’t see any change in that person? Have you done your best to tell someone about Jesus, but it hasn’t seemed to make any difference?

Be encouraged! You don’t know what God has been doing in that person’s heart. It could take a very long time for them to come to Jesus, but keep sharing God’s love with them and keep praying. As Christians, we can trust God with the results, knowing He “is patient…not wanting anyone to perish, but everyone to come to repentance” (2 Peter 3:9).

God is working, so keep praying (John 5:17; 1 Timothy 2:1-6). We can trust Him to bring about His good purposes. He has promised that all things will be made new, free from sin and death, and that everyone who puts their trust in Jesus will dwell forever with Him and His people in the new heavens and the new earth (Romans 8:20-29; Revelation 21:1-5). Even now, He is continuing to work behind the scenes, drawing people to Himself. • A. W. Smith

• If you know Jesus, who were the different people God worked through to show you more about Him? Consider taking a moment to thank God for them—and maybe thank the people too!

• What are some ways we can show God’s love to those who don’t know Jesus yet? As we pray for these people, we can ask God to give us ideas and opportunities to share His love.

I [Paul] planted the seed, Apollos watered it, but God has been making it grow. 1 Corinthians 3:6 (NIV)