In all toil there is profit, but mere talk tends only to poverty. Proverbs 14:23
We do it the first Monday in every September. We pause to celebrate labor. For many, Labor Day is a three-day weekend that helps us celebrate the conclusion of a great summer with a party and some tasty grilled food. But what is Labor Day, really?
There’s so much more to Labor Day than the weekend getaways and the funny (but relatable) Labor Day memes we see online. In fact, as its name implies, the holiday has historical roots in the labor movement.
In addition, work is not God’s way of punishing us. In fact, He blesses us with the ability to work, so that we can honor Him. Colossians 3:22 says, “You who are servants who are owned by someone, obey your owners. Work hard for them all the time, not just when they are watching you.”
Whether you are a student, employee or both, it is important to look at our work from a Christian perspective. After all, we spend a lot of time at school and in the workplace.
Everyone has a different attitude when it comes to work. Some have the tendency to overwork themselves, while others avoid it at all costs. However, having either of these attitudes can lead to negative consequences.
So, what does the Bible have to say about work? As Christians, it is important to align our perspective with God’s when it comes to this topic. For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.” Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters, (24) 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
Paul was a tent maker. In the New Testament – Jesus made…
132 public appearances – 122 were in the marketplace
52 parables that Jesus told – 45 had a workplace context
Of 40 miracles in the Book of Acts – 39 were in the marketplace
Work, in its different forms, is mentioned more than 800 times in the Bible – more than all the words used to express worship, music, praise and singing combined.
Don’t minimize your daily work – it is nothing less than a Holy calling. God has you right where He wants you… Right now!
When we go all the way back to Genesis, we can see that God worked when He created the world. Therefore, when we work, we resemble Him.
Colossians 3:22 says, “You who are servants who are owned by someone, obey your owners. Work hard for them all the time, not just when they are watching you. Work for them as you would for the Lord because you honor God.” When we obey the authority figures in our life, we are ultimately serving Christ.
As sons and daughters of God, we have all been given different talents and abilities. When we use our gifts, we can experience fulfillment as we serve Christ and share His love with others.
The Bible reminds us of the importance of rest. When God created the world, He worked for six days and rested on the seventh. When we give ourselves time to rest and be in God’s Word, we can recharge for what is to come. By resting, we ensure that we will be prepared to serve Christ in whatever comes our way.
This Labor Day weekend, take this time to rest. Reflect on what the Bible says about work and ask God to give you the discipline to apply these principles to your life. Ultimately, by doing this, we can glorify Him!
by John Grant
used by permission
FURTHER READING
Why do You want to be Successful? Business leader Peter Chung, a Christian business man, shares about his experience.
Getting Life Back on Track by Marvin Kehler
Redefining Success – Successful business owner Dr. Ed Becker describes how is definition of success changed.
Setting up a Proper Foundation in Your Life for a Successful Business and Personal Life – Dr. Ed Becker
Unexpected Opportunity Herb Buller talks about how having cancer in his eyes turned into positive opportunities.
Being Honest and Ethical in Business – Herb Buller talks about Seizing Opportunities and Becoming a Work of Art
What does Success look like for You? Entrepreneur John Roise
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