HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT WORK AND ITS REWARDS?

SCRIPTURE:
“Even while we were still there with you we gave you this rule: 
'He who does not work shall not eat.’” 
(2 Thessalonians 3:10)

MEDITATION:
A fairly recent generation had a thirst for working hard.
They took pride in their work and in order to provide for their family,
they would settle for any job that provided an income.
They had a feeling of responsibility to get a job 
and a feeling of accomplishment when they found one.
Some worked in coal mines even with the threat of a cave in 
and the possibility of developing black lung.

However, we live in a world of entitlements these days.
Many feel they are entitled to receive money and other material things 
without putting forth any effort.
We could speculate the reason for this kind of attitude, 
but regardless of the reason, 
there are many who want benefits with no effort.

This type of attitude carries over into the spiritual realm.
Many people want Christ, but without any associated responsibilities.
A person who genuinely surrenders their life to the Lord 
develops a change in attitude toward work.

They know that Jesus was not a drop-out.
He was a carpenter Who worked hard with his hands.
As they mature as a Christian, 
their desire to work encompasses working for the Lord.
The apostle Paul dedicated himself to serving the Lord, 
but he supported himself at the same time by making tents.

A Christian realizes that whatever he does is done unto the Lord. 
Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, 
not for human masters, since you know that you will receive an inheritance 
from the Lord as a reward. It is the Lord Christ you are serving. 
(Colossians 3:23-24)

He also realizes that as a believer, 
he has a responsibility to work for the Lord.
Therefore, my dear brothers and sisters, stand firm. Let nothing move you. 
Always give yourselves fully to the work of the Lord, because you know that 
your labor in the Lord is not in vain. (1 Corinthians 3:23-24)

Believers should do their best at whatever job they have 
(including the Lord’s work).
They should be dedicated, faithful, clean, honest and trustworthy.

ACTION:
Have you assumed the proper responsibilities in your life?
Do you actively work in order to attain the things you want, 
or are you guilty of looking for a handout?
How about in the spiritual realm?
Are you actively serving the Lord in some capacity?

Pray,
“Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your salvation. As a member 
of Your family, remind me of my responsibilities on earth and in the 
spiritual realm of serving You. Forgive me if I have assumed that once I 
have been saved, I have no responsibilities to work for You and Your 
ministry. Show me my Spiritual gift, teach me how to use it, and encourage 
me in my attempts to use it. Thank You for teaching me that work is a 
blessing.”