“For it is God who worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.” – Philippians 2:13 NKJV
Labor Day is set aside to pay tribute to working men and women.
It has been celebrated as a national holiday in the United States and Canada since 1894. Historically, it means two things: many people are off work, and it’s the “unofficial” end of summer, even though I dare to say that many would question that after the intense heat that continues in so many parts of our country.
So, as a working man or woman, when was the last time you found joy in your work?
The Bible gives us a key, “Whatever you do, do all for the glory of God.”
There’s a story about a woman who cleaned the same office building for many years. When asked how she endured the drudgery of doing the same chores day in and day out, she replied, “It’s not drudgery. I’m working for the King, and He’s pleased (along with others) when I do my best.” This woman found the secret to meaningful work.
When we work for the Lord and to serve other people, any honorable work has meaning. It all depends on your attitude. Are you anticipating another day of drudgery? If so, that’s probably what you’ll get. But if you’re planning to live this day to please God and to serve your fellow man, you may be surprised at how the drudgery is replaced by joy and meaning.
So, on this special day, Labor Day, as we honor our working men and women, I pray that you will find the secret to meaningful work. But folks, don’t be surprised to find God is at work today – watch out, world! We’re still under construction. He’s not finished with any of us yet! Our God is working within us, for us, and through us to make us, and our world, what He wants us to be.
And by the way, world, be sure to keep watching, for the work project never ceases until the day He comes or calls us home. He is faithful, He doesn’t forget nor forsake – and He never fails!
Someday the caution signs will be removed, the construction job complete, but until that day, Lord, LABOR ON, work in us, for us, and through us – and may we, too, always abound in the work of the Lord, knowing that our “labor is not in vain!” (1 Corinthians 15:58)
Written by Bryant Wright, Founder, RFTH
