We struggle for years, working to serve the Lord. Yet there are moments when setbacks can cause us to wonder why we expended so much effort. It can seem like it is wasted. Isaiah expressed this sentiment: “But I said, ‘I have toiled in vain, I have spent My strength for nothing and vanity (Isaiah 49:4, NASB).’”
However, in the verses that precede this verse, Isaiah remembers God’s calling on his life: “The LORD called Me from the womb; From the body of My mother He named Me (verse 1).” God created Isaiah for His purpose. He grew and matured Isaiah for the moment in Israel’s history to deliver His message. “He has made My mouth like a sharp sword, In the shadow of His hand He has concealed Me; And He has also made Me a select arrow, He has hidden Me in His quiver (2).”
Our idea of accomplishment should not be based on our feelings or the opinions of others. The judgement of others should not hinder our work for the Lord. We need to seek God and His wisdom to guide us and how we can best serve Him. As Isaiah wrote: “Yet surely the justice due to Me is with the LORD, And My reward with My God (4).”
“I will also make You a light of the nations So that My salvation may reach to the end of the earth.” – Isaiah 49:6 (NASB)
140 Character Christian 
Amen! Isaiah’s journey teaches us to stay focused on our own continuing relationship with God when life’s inevitable struggles come knocking.
Your comment made me think of Matthew 6:33-34: “But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.
“So do not worry about tomorrow; for tomorrow will care for itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.”
Thanks for reading and sharing your thoughts. Blessings.