Reaping the Blessings of Work

Reaping the Blessings of Work by Jim and Elizabeth George

The word “work” is mentioned over 350 times in the Bible. It is clear from God’s work that you and I work at something in life. And whatever career we choose to pursue, or feel called to accomplish, will most likely require hard work to be successful.

Charles M. Schwab, the great steel tycoon, is famous for his “Ten Commandments of Success.” What was number one? Mr. Schwab put hard work at the top of the list. He explained, “Hard work is the best investment a man can make.”

Thomas A. Edison, the great inventor, denied he was a genius. Instead, he attributed his success to dedicated work. He rarely slept more than four hours a night and was often seen catching a nap or two during the day. Too much sleep, he claimed, “makes you dopey. And you lose time, vitality, and opportunities.”

Today, our culture has different ideas about work than in years past. A commitment to excellence in the workplace can be hard to come by. Many people either want everything given to them without working for it, or they don’t want to work very hard to get it. You, however, as a believer after God’s own heart, are called to be different. Understanding God’s purposes and priorities for our life, we should work hard for God and His glory, and not for men. What kind of blessings can you reap from this kind of diligence in your work?

First, you will be blessed in knowing that you are fulfilling the will of God in your life. This is enough, but there’s more.

Second, you will be blessed in knowing that a spouse, if you are married, can share God’s blessings with you. Your obedience affects your spouse’s life as well, and brings blessing not only to you, but to them.

Third, you will be blessed by knowing that you are doing your best as you do your work unto the Lord. You will know the fulfillment that comes from taking pride in the excellence of your work.

Believer, if you work hard, understanding the will of God, and live out His purposes and His priorities for your life, you can provide for your family, you will be successful at your vocation, and you will progress in your career. You will be a “light on a hill.” And you will fulfill the will of God for your life. These blessings and more can be yours when you tend to your career God’s way.

RESPOND:

Lord, help me to work hard and for you glory, diligently pursuing my calling and caring for my family. Amen.

RENEWING RESOURCES:

Pursuing GodlinessElizabeth shares how women can deepen their Christian walk, paying special attention to focus, heart attitudes, and behavior that glorifies God. This Bible study makes the quest for godliness an exciting and practical journey!

REFLECT:

What other blessings have you experienced by seeing your job as a way to glorify God? How can I grow in diligence in the workplace?

REMEMBER:

Hard and diligent work are part of your calling as a believer, and will bring blessings to you and others.


Leave a comment

Comments will be approved before showing up.

Jim and Elizabeth George

Jim and Elizabeth George are bestselling authors and national speakers dedicated to helping people live a life after God’s own heart. Together, they have written over 150 books with more than 14 million copies sold around the world. For over 35 years, the teachings and steadfast example of Elizabeth and Jim have helped countless men and women:

  • Simplify life by focusing on God’s priorities.
  • Appreciate God’s Word and apply it to everyday situations.
  • Respond to circumstances with confidence by seeing yourself through God’s loving eyes.
  • Increase closeness in marriage by serving and honoring each other.
  • Powerfully shape the hearts of children and teenagers.
  • Enjoy greater intimacy with God.

Learn more about Jim and Elizabeth George here.

Jim and Elizabeth George

Jim and Elizabeth George are bestselling authors and national speakers dedicated to helping people live a life after God’s own heart. Together, they have written over 150 books with more than 14 million copies sold around the world. For over 35 years, the teachings and steadfast example of Elizabeth and Jim have helped countless men and women:

  • Simplify life by focusing on God’s priorities.
  • Appreciate God’s Word and apply it to everyday situations.
  • Respond to circumstances with confidence by seeing yourself through God’s loving eyes.
  • Increase closeness in marriage by serving and honoring each other.
  • Powerfully shape the hearts of children and teenagers.
  • Enjoy greater intimacy with God.

Learn more about Jim and Elizabeth George here.


Also in From Our Hearts

Life Management of the Heart
Life Management of the Heart

by Elizabeth George September 26, 2023

I’ve made a life-long study of time and life management. This subject became so interesting to me because the first 30 years of my life, and early stages of marriage, were characterized by miss-management, lack of direction, and frenzied frustration.
Read More
Choosing the One Thing Needed
Choosing the One Thing Needed

by Elizabeth George September 19, 2023

Today, let’s take a closer look at someone who sat at Jesus’ feet and received His praise. Can you imagine that—receiving God’s praise! The attitude of Mary, the sister of Martha and Lazarus, demonstrated for us the meaning of a heart devoted to God. What did Mary do that moved our Savior to praise her?
Read More
Getting Through Difficult Days
Getting Through Difficult Days

by Elizabeth George September 12, 2023

One of my favorite words in the English language is “bittersweet.” It’s sort of like the well-known announcement, “I’ve got good news and bad news. Which do you want first?” This picturesque term always reminds me that many occurrences in life fall simultaneously into the glad/sad category, bringing forth both emotions at once.

Read More