Thoughts from daily Bible reading for today – April 15, 2016
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. Colossians 3:23-24
She worked tirelessly, as she meticulously cleaned the hospital room. Every object shone brightly after her sanitized rag rubbed over the surface of the metal mirror frame, the elaborate bed support, the mobile meal table—all surfaces harboring germs. My wife Rita, recognizing the hospital attendant’s energetic work commented, “Teresa, you must sleep well at night.” Sincerely she replied, “I sleep well every night. The Lord gives me good sleep. I work for the Lord. I used to do those drugs and alcohol, but not for seven years. I was rescued and now I work for the Lord.”
Teresa continued, “I worked my way up to this job (custodian) and I am glad I can do good work for all these people who need me. Like your mother (Rita’s mom was very ill), she’s going to be ok, she is a good woman. Reminds me of my momma. My momma saw me work here for three years before she passed. Yes, momma saw me work for the Lord and not do those old drugs and alcohol.” Rita felt she was in the presence of greatness, a great woman who acknowledged and served her great God. Teresa’s gratitude was infectious, her work ethic for her Lord—worshipful!
“Do not work for food that spoils, but for food that endures to eternal life, which the Son of Man will give you. For on him God the Father has placed his seal of approval” (John 6:27).
What is the motivation behind your work? A paycheck to put food on the table, furniture in the house, gas in the car, children in school and eventually retirement to spend on yourself? If this is your small, self focused perspective there is a much larger and fulfilling vision to embrace. The Lord Jesus Christ is the owner of all commerce and economic development. God is in charge of job placement, promotions and career advancement. The Holy Spirit moves the hearts of decision makers to make the choices that align with the Lord’s will. So, work for the Lord’s eternal ways.
Never ever, get over gratitude to God for the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health to carry out your job responsibilities. Manage yourself and your time, as if your Master Jesus might drop by at any time and inspect your work. What would He find? Diligence or half-heartedness. Excellence or expedience. Counting the minutes or wondering where the time went. Maybe you need a fresh start—a new challenge. Take whatever means necessary, so your work means something. Boldly declare, you work for the Lord! He gives you purpose. He gives you peace.
“Why spend money on what is not bread, and your labor on what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to me, and eat what is good, and you will delight in the richest of fare” (Isaiah 55:2).
Prayer
Heavenly Father, help me not forget: I work for You and with You to do great work.Application
Where in my work do I need to up my game to reflect my gratitude to God?Related Reading
Ecclesiastes 6:2; Isaiah 49:4; Hosea 4:10-11; Haggai 1:6; Matthew 16:27Post/Tweet today
Manage yourself and your time, as if your Master Jesus might drop by at any time and inspect your work. #WisdomHunters #workfortheLordWorship Resource
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