Do you feel a certain duty to work? Not only should we feel a duty to work, but God has given us the obligation to work. God Himself set an example for us by working for six days and the seventh resting. He set the pattern for generations to come.
What are God's standards for work? In Exodus 35:1-2 it says, "For six days, work is to be done, but the seventh day shall be your holy day, a Sabbath of rest to the LORD." In the Old Testament God gave the Israelites special standards regarding work. He wanted them to work Sunday through Friday and rest on Saturday. God called it His Sabbath. We now have a "day of rest" on Sunday. Sunday can best be used as a time dedicated to attending a local church to worship God and fellowship with other Christians.
Who should work? Sometimes we may think because we are young, work need not be a priority. But the fact is if we have hands that are able to move and feel, hands that God gave us, then God wants us to make them useful in some beneficial way. Ephesians 4:28 28 says, "He who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with his own hands, that he may have something to share with those in need."
What are the benefits of working?
1. Work helps us provide for ourselves and avoid becoming reliant on others. In 2 Thessalonians 3:10-13 it says "For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: "If a man will not work, he shall not eat."
2. Work helps us avoid engaging in bad habits. 1 Timothy 5:13-14 says, "And besides they learn to be idle, wandering about from house to house, and not only idle but also gossips and busybodies, saying things which they ought not."
3. Work helps create an orderly life and build respect within our community. 1Thessalonians 4:11-12 "make it your ambition to lead a quiet life, to mind your own business and to work with your hands, just as we told you so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody."
Providing for ourselves and our loved ones is important, but caring for the Lord's work is of even greater importance. In 1 Thessalonians 5:12 it notes the importance of those who care for the needs of the local church. There it says, "Now we ask you, brothers, to respect those who work hard among you, who are over you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other."
Having a job or doing chores are necessary for building character and a work ethic. It isn't always fun or exciting, but it does feel good when you assist others in something or get your first paycheck. Remember, in everything we do let it bring blessing, honor and glory to God.
