June 3rd~Whistle While You Work

Proverbs 22:17-24:34

Solomon shared some of his “sayings of the wise,” which were more insights on topics that he had already covered, such as defending the poor, seeking after wisdom, speaking the truth, honoring parents, and avoiding drunkenness and sexual immorality. The topic that caught my attention today was the last one that Solomon addressed — laziness. “A little extra sleep, a little more slumber... and poverty will pounce on you like a bandit; scarcity will attack you like an armed robber” (24:33, 34). What is a biblical perspective of work?

God instituted work in the beginning, at creation. “The Lord took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and take care of
it” (Genesis 2:15). Keep in mind that this was before Adam and Eve rebelled, which means that work was included in the “very good” part of the creation account. It was only after sin entered the scene that work became toil.

What, work is a good thing? Yes. Work is a gift of God. It has a way of giving us a sense of purpose, productivity, and dignity. That’s why Solomon wrote, “Work brings profit but talk leads to poverty” (14:23). “Take a lesson from the ants, you lazybones. Learn from their ways... Even though they have no prince, governor, or ruler to make them work, they labor hard all summer, gathering food for the winter...” (6:6- 11). Ants don’t need someone to make them work, because they know the value of work. God ordained that there be benefit to work. Through it He meets our needs.

Paul made this connection between work and survival, when he wrote to the Thessalonians, “If a man will not work, then he shall not eat” (2 Thess. 3:10). Work is integral to life. Therefore, we should do our best and not com- plain about it.

As a child, I remember watching the Seven Dwarfs whistle while they worked, recognizing that they loved their labor. Since work is a blessing from the Lord, then we should work with a thankful heart. We can take pleasure in it. Though work is difficult, at times, and has its challenges, we can enjoy it. We should also work to the best of our ability in a way that pleases the Lord. “Whatever you do, do it with all your heart, as unto the Lord rather than men...” (Colossians 3:22-25).

Daily Reflection

What has been your attitude towards work?

Having in mind a biblical perspective of work, explain why laziness, apathy, or inactivity are displeasing, even offensive, to God.

Christians should be the best workers. We should work harder we should be reliable and trustworthy to do a good job, even when no one is watching. We should exhibit the best attitude with our co-workers and our boss. Work is another way for us to reflect well on our God. Does this describe you? Why or why not?

BiAY.org |Day 154 — 211 Days to Go