There is great satisfaction when we, as Christians, enjoy our daily work. Hopefully, over time, our enthusiasm for our labor will motivate others to enjoy their work as well. In like manner, those serving the cause of Christ ought to daily radiate the joy they have in their daily walk with Jesus. Yes, God expects His children to be faithful in all things. Failure to do so diminishes their influence for the cause of Christ.
Is it possible to find joyful satisfaction in all our daily activities? The apostle Paul, in his letter to the church at Colossi, penned, “Bond servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh, not with eye-service, as men-pleasers, but in sincerity of heart, fearing God. And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ” (Colossians 3:22-24). The employer/employee relationship mentioned by Paul is different from that time period, but the principle is the same. Saints ought to labor diligently in their daily activities, so God will be glorified. For example, we must not be lazy or indifferent toward our work, for such behavior might well cause others to doubt our sincerity for the cause of Christ.
Regarding His work for His Heavenly Father, Jesus declared, “I must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day; the night is coming when no one can work” (John 9:4). Knowing His own life in the flesh was but for a brief span of time, Jesus was motivated to diligently press on with His Father’s plans for the salvation of mankind. Disciples of Christ must also realize their time limitations. Knowing their hour of departure from the earth is nearer than before, efforts must be made by the redeemed to faithfully advance the everlasting gospel of Jesus Christ. Most assuredly, a day is coming when no man can work. Paul wrote the church at Corinth encouraging them to be “…steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that your labor is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58). Similar thinking seems to have been on Paul’s mind when he declared, “And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks through Him to God the Father” (Colossians 3:17).
If earthly employers require employees to be diligent in their daily work, how much more does God expect? Christians must shoulder and discharge their duties lest they come up short. Failure to recognize and execute spiritual responsibilities shows a lack of faith, which is not in the best interest of those who seek immortality. James, writing of much needed faithfulness, penned “…faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead. But someone will say, “You have faith, and I have works.” Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works” (James 2:17-18).
If you haven’t been diligent in your spiritual service, when can God expect you to reform your way of living? Remember, “…your labor is not in vain in the Lord.”