"Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor." Proverbs 12:24

Work. We complain about it. We resist it. We blame it on the Fall... even though Adam and Eve relished in it before they tried to expand their resume to include being like God.

God created us in His likeness — and a part of His likeness consists of work. We were made to accomplish things and to feel good about our accomplishments, no matter how great or menial the task. Work provides us with a sense of dignity.

My husband and I recently spent a Saturday morning volunteering at a homeless shelter. Our job assignment consisted of washing the windows. I got really into it, wanting to make every smear and smudge disappear. No streaks on my watch! Since no one there knew me, my reputation wasn’t at stake. So why the inward push to give it all I had?

I believe God made me — and all of us — to savor what we do. Intrinsically, we sense that our work reflects something greater than a paycheck. It has nothing to do with position or status, how much money we make, or how other people view our job. When we approach our work with a sense of respect, the result of our labor creates both satisfaction and purpose within us.

It's time we reclaim the dignity found in work. Jesus brought glory to God by completing His labor (John 17:4). So can we. Let’s not underestimate the light that shines from those who do their work, and do it well.

May our diligent hands rule!

Father, thank You for the dignity of work. Thank You for giving us strength to do our jobs to the best of our abilities for Your glory. Please shine through every accomplishment, great or small. Amen.

Take Action

The next time you’re tempted to complain about your work, stop and give thanks for this incredible opportunity to bring glory to God through what you are doing.



Tags: diligence