Happy are those who find satisfaction in their chosen field of employment. As Christians, we ought to be thankful to God for the ability to earn our daily bread. Concerning laborers, Paul proclaimed, “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 relationship today is somewhat different, but the principle is the same. Saints ought to labor diligently so that God’s work in Christ is glorified. By demonstrating love for God and his son Jesus, even in their work, Saints will one day be rewarded in a glorious way.
Jesus said, “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). He knew man was allocated only so much time to work. Knowing His own life in the flesh was winding rapidly to a close, Jesus pressed on with His Father’s plans for the salvation of mankind. In fact brethren, every minute that passes, our departure from this world is nearer than the one before.
Truly, God has blessed us with daily bread—Matthew 6:33—therefore, we must be certain to do everything within our power to advance His cause. The apostle Paul, knowing his life was already being poured out, encouraged brethren at Corinth 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).
Brethren, the work we do for our Lord and Christ is far more important than any other secular labor in which we might engage ourselves. Employers call upon us to daily practice due diligence—how much more does God expect of those who labor in His Kingdom? So brethren, as Disciples of Christ, we must shoulder our duties and make haste lest we come up short of His expectations. Failure to recognize and execute our spiritual responsibilities shows a serious lack of faith—which is not in the best interest of those seeking everlasting life.
James, calling upon brethren to be faithful, penned, “Thus also 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). Then let all who love His appearing work the works of God, who has called us out of darkness into His marvelous light, while we are still able to do so.
If you haven’t been diligent in His service, now is a good time to get started. When do you plan to get started? If you are faithfully laboring in his kingdom, is it possible for you to do even more, “knowing your labor is not in vain in the Lord” (1 Corinthians 15:58)?
This Post sponsored by Painters in Rock Hill