The importance of work

"Some of you walk in disorder : they do not work at all ... We enjoin those who do this, and we pray them in the Lord Jesus Christ, to eat their own bread by working peacefully." 2 Thessalonians. 3. 11, 12

"Whatever you do, do it with heart, as for the Lord." Colossians 3. 23

In the first text, the Apostle Paul seriously warns Christians who neglect the constraints and discipline of everyday life. Some say, for example, that they are waiting for the imminent return of the Lord; for them it is not worth working because we will leave everything tomorrow ! What is the meaning and value of the work for the Christian ?

The book of Genesis proposes on this subject a double look. Before the fall, Adam is placed in the Garden of Eden to cultivate it and keep it (Genesis 2:15). He is therefore responsible for participating in his interview. It is first a noble activity for the man who is thus associated with the work of the Creator. But everything changes at the fall : the work becomes painful : "Cursed is the ground because of you ; you will eat it by laboriously working every day of your life" (Genesis 3: 9).

The teaching of N.T. offers other perspectives on work. The apostle Paul himself gives an example : "It is by working night and day to be no burden to any of you that we have preached the gospel of God" (1 Thes. 2. 9) . His mission is to announce the Gospel, but he does not neglect the constraints of life. He does not want to be a burden to the church ; at the same time he values ​​work. In working, one incarnates fully in the real. Work is a source of balance. Indeed, the unemployment suffered by many of our fellow citizens often leads to a sense of loss of identity and value.

In the second verse of the day, the apostle proposes another dimension to work : it is an opportunity for the believer to bear witness. Many modest workers pay great attention to the tasks entrusted to them. Their superiors notice such collaborators who, in their own way, magnify the Gospel.

Many believers seek to honor their Lord. They can do this in their daily activity. Let's be diligent in everything we do where we are. We are watching !

Source (Pleasing the Lord)