Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today- October 5, 2010
“Moreover, when God gives any man wealth and possessions and enables him to enjoy them, to accept his lot and be happy in his work—this is a gift of God.” Ecclesiastes 5:19
God gives multiple gifts over the course of a lifetime. Wealth, relationships, enjoyment of possessions, contentment in life and fulfilling careers are significant gifts of God. No one can out give God, because generosity is one of His passions and He has unlimited capacity. Not only does He give, but He also gives the ability to enjoy His blessings.
“Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows” (James 1:17).
Access to money and possessions without the ability to enjoy them is meaningless. If wealth has you trapped in a perpetual maze of worry, then look to the gift giver. He did not give you possessions to obsess over. Fixation on money marginalizes faith. If you are unable to relax and enjoy money, God, and friends then money may be your master.
We cannot enjoy what we cling to all for ourselves. When money steals our peace of mind it may have become an idol. It soon replaces Christ as our number one loyalty for attention and worship. Keep money in its proper place or it will wear you out. It will wear you out in worry and it will wear you out in trying to amass more. “Do not wear yourself out to get rich; have the wisdom to show restraint” (Proverbs 23:7).
Our work is another gift from God and our ability to enjoy it is from Him. Even if we do not have to work, we need to work. Our Creator designed us for work. If you have no joy in your career and see no relief on the horizon, then make a move. God does not expect you to be miserable in your work. Toil for the Lord and you will never lack purpose.
It is not so much the quantity of your wages as it is the quality of your work environment. It is a gift from God when you are privileged to work alongside people who value excellence, teamwork, innovation, results, faith and family. Recognize often this gift from God and thank Him. Are you “salt and light” for Christ at your work? Jesus said, “You are the salt of the earth…You are the light of the world” (Matthew 5:13a, 14a).
Do not wear your Christianity on your sleeves, instead roll up your sleeves and do excellent work. As you enjoy work, people will ask how you can be so joyful and content in all work environments. God’s gifts glorify Him. “But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect” (1 Peter 3:15).
Do I enjoy to their fullest God’s gifts of wealth, work and relationships?
Related Readings: 1 Chronicles 29:11-12; Ezra 1:5-7; Luke 11:13; 1 Corinthians 15:57
Boyd Bailey is the author of Wisdom Hunters daily devotional and two devotional books, Infusion and Seeking Daily the Heart of God
