In this world of conveniences I sometimes think that we get mixed ideas of what it really means to work.  We not only want things to be done quickly but also without much effort but work takes effort.   The words work and labor are used interchangeably and denote an effort put forth and receiving rewards for that effort.  The Bible speaks much about work; God’s work and our work.  Genesis, the first book of the Bible records God’s creation of the world; then the Book of Revelation, where He will reward us for our work.  God is aware of our works for His Kingdom and no service of love is considered insignificant to Him.  He sees all. 

However our rewards are not just based on what we do but on why.  It’s also about our attitude, reason, and purpose we want our work to achieve.  Is our work for us to receive recognition and glory, or for God to get the glory for the work He does in and through us?  A question everyone must ask themselves and to monitor from time to time because the devil will use our successes as snares of pride in us.  So beware.  Colossians 3:23 tells us that whatever we do we are to do as unto the Lord, and not unto (for) men (or self, or selfish reasons).

Work is a part of our lives.  It was even part of Adam’s life, and he lived in the Garden of Eden!  (Genesis 2:15)   So God intends for us to work.  Work is necessary to accomplish anything from studying for good grades; practicing a musical instrument to become proficient,  learning how to operate machinery for a job or mow the lawn, learning a new language,  and even to learning the Word of God so our faith is strong when difficult times come our way.  Work should be looked upon as a tool to be used to achieve a goal.  When we have a positive outlook then it’s easier to commit to that work until we have reached the complete end.  We are instructed in Galatians 6:9 to not become weary in well doing; that we will reap from our work if we faint not.  This is true both in the natural and spiritual aspects of our lives.  We’ve been talking about the outward work of what we do, which is of course important, but now let’s look at the inward work that God wants to do in our heart.

Philippians 2:12 instructs us to work out our own salvation; which means we submit to living according to God’s Word; we exchange our views for His, our ways for His, and in return we receive His blessings.  God wants patience to rule in our heart so we can ward off the snares of restlessness, irritation, and anxiousness.  He wants us to have a heart of mercy and grace so we can reach out to others in their difficulty times without being critical or judgmental.  Our Heavenly Father wants us to have His love dwelling in our hearts abundantly so we can love others as He loves them.

So as we celebrate this Labor Day weekend, let’s be thankful for the ability and good health to work and fulfill God’s plan for our lives.  Let’s be good stewards of our time and talents so our lives bring glory to Him, for He is truly worthy of all praise and glory.  He rewards us with abundant life in this lifetime and extends into all eternity.

Matthew 16:27 – for the Son of man shall come in the glory of his Father with his angels; and then he shall reward every man according to his works.

2 Timothy 1:9 – who has saved us and called us with a holy calling, not according to our works, but according to his own purpose and grace which was given us in Christ Jesus before the world began.

Galatians 6:9 – let us not be weary in well doing; for in due season we shall reap, if we faint not.

Revelation 2:23 – I will give unto every one of you according to your works.