It’s almost Labor Day. The official end to summer is upon us. Holidays are a time to grill out, rest, and spend time with family. I’d say the majority of us have the day off (from school and work) on Monday. However, you and I still need to celebrate work and why it matters to God.
In Pr. 20:13, Solomon said, “Love not sleep, lest you come to poverty; open your eyes, and you will have plenty of bread.” Solomon doesn’t mean we’re to work to the point that we neglect sleep, rest, or health. In 2 Thess. 3:10, Paul said, “If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.” If you and I are physically able, then God expects us to work (paid or volunteer). Even saying that, the church still has a mandate to be gracious and generous to those unable to work and in need.
- The ability to work is a gift from God. The health to get up each day and go to work is a blessing from God. In Dt. 8:17-18, Moses challenged, “Beware lest you say in your heart, ‘My power and the might of my hand have gotten me this wealth.’ You shall remember the Lord your God, for it is he who gives you power to get wealth, that he may confirm his covenant that he swore to your fathers, as it is this day.” Our next breath is a gift from God!
- The workplace is more than a place to get a paycheck. Receiving a paycheck is a necessary benefit. However, God wants you and me to see our workplaces as platforms for ministry. In Col. 3:23-24, Paul declared, “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” Is anyone in your workplace hurting? Are people in your company and on your team living away from Jesus and His church? As appropriate, and as the Lord opens the door, you can pray for a coworker, share Jesus with a colleague, or invite a team member to church.
- The benefits of work bless the Lord’s church, other people, and us. As you and I earn incomes and practice biblical stewardship, we’re able to give as the Lord says give; we’re able to help meet other people’s needs; and we’re able to pay our bills and live responsibly. The goal of financial wealth isn’t to see who can buy the most toys. It’s to love God, each other, and people in our city and around the world. Paul made it clear that “God loves a cheerful giver” (2 Cor. 9:7).
- The discipline of work is obedience to God. Being a dedicated worker helps meet financial obligations and models spiritual obedience. As you and I share Jesus Christ, live on mission, practice faithful stewardship, edify the church, and work with integrity, our obedience brings glory to God. In 1 Cor. 10:31, Paul stated, “So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.”
As you and I enjoy a holiday break, and whether you draw a salary or volunteer, I hope we’ll thank the Lord for the ability to labor. The Lord promises to meet our needs, and one way that He fulfills His Word is giving us an opportunity to earn a living.
Wednesday nights at Bradfordville are exciting! We have ministries for all ages. As for Sunday mornings, there’s a place for you in Sunday School and worship. I pray that you’ll take advantage of the many opportunities to know Jesus and grow in the faith at Bradfordville. May you have a safe and thankful Labor Day weekend!
Serving Jesus,
Pastor Ronny
1 Cor. 3:9