Work Is Not a Four-Letter Word

Daily Reading: 2 Thessalonians 3

For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat. For we hear that some among you walk in idleness, not busy at work, but busybodies. Now such persons we command and encourage in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living. (2 Thessalonians 3.10-12)

Devotional Thought: The Thessalonians had fallen into error concerning the Lord’s return.  Thinking he was coming any time - probably today! - some people thought that meant that they didn’t need to do anything but sit and wait.  They weren’t even working to take care of their basic needs.  They were depending on others to feed and clothe and house them.  Paul said, “If you live like that, you are going to be hungry.”  That would not be politically correct today, would it?  Work is a four letter word!

But, as I've said many times, quoting the old Jewish rabbi: “Receiving without giving corrodes the soul.”

Today's culture, however, says, “Why should I have to work?  It’s my right to be fed!”  If we take that to its logical conclusion, we're all going to be hungry!  Some may say, "I can't find a job."  Then get out and volunteer.  Others: “I can’t work.  I’m disabled.”  You can do something.  Make phone calls, write notes, pray over the prayer list from your church/family!  Make a contribution!  Do something to earn the bread you eat!  And since the command is to do something to earn the bread, then it makes sense that your contribution, your effort, should somehow be directed toward the group from which you receive help.

And, I could go on about those who complain, “I’m just not being fed at church…”  I have found that those not being fed are those not making any effort to feed themselves, and definitely not making any effort to feed others.  Work (in the financial and the spiritual realms) is not a four letter word!

Prayer: Lord, the Bible says that you worked in creation and then you rested from your work.  Help me to work until the day I rest from my labors.  Amen.

Psalm of the Day: 30.1-5

1 I will extol you, O LORD, for you have drawn me up and have not let my foes rejoice over me.

2 O LORD my God, I cried to you for help, and you have healed me.

3 O LORD, you have brought up my soul from Sheol; you restored me to life from among those who go down to the pit.

4 Sing praises to the LORD, O you his saints, and give thanks to his holy name.

5 For his anger is but for a moment, and his favor is for a lifetime. Weeping may tarry for the night, but joy comes with the morning.