Labor

Commit thy works unto the Lord (Proverbs 16:3b).

Only in modern times has work become something to be done only when necessary and to be avoided when possible. Back in history, most people took pride in their work. Perhaps the assembly lines and mass production caused people to start looking at work differently. The Bible is certainly clear that work is important. As far back as Genesis, God assigned Adam and Eve tasks to do in the Garden of Eden.

Proverbs tells us to look at the ant, who works diligently without supervision (see Proverbs 5:5-8). We should be as self-disciplined and as productive. The apostle Paul addressed this too: "...if any would not work, neither should he eat. For we hear there are some which walk among you disorderly, working not at all, but are busybodies" (2 Thessalonians 3:10-13). And James tells us that faith without works is dead (see James 2:26).

God expects us to work, both to support ourselves if we are able and for Him. He assigns each of us tasks according to where we are in life and the gifts he has given us. Are we working diligently for Him? Anything we do, we should dedicate it to God. If we can't do that, then perhaps we are involved in some thing we shouldn't be. As another Labor Day approaches, let's assess how well we do our work, celebrate what we do right, and improve what we need to do better.

And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord (Colossians 2:23a).  

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