Yesterday I promised a second nugget of truth from the book of Ezra regarding work. Here it is:
Nugget 2: Work with great energy.
In chapter five, a comment is made about the work that is being done on the new temple. It states that "the work is going forward with great energy and success." (NLT) In other translations this phrase "with great energy" is seen as "with diligence" and "great care." Regardless of which translation you prefer, there is a lesson here about HOW we are to do our jobs, and the jobs on which we choose to "pitch in."
Remember in school how frustrating it was when you were paired with someone to do a project and all they wanted to do was the bare minimum? Maybe your partner was willing to settle for a passing grade when you were really going for the "A." That was me anyway. What kind of effort would you put into your job if you knew you were going to be graded? Some of us who are homemakers or who have worked for ourselves can tend to think that we can get away with the bare minimum. What does God think about that?
The apostle Paul said "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for men." (Colossians 3:23 NIV)
This includes washing the dishes, raising your children, keeping your house, and doing your outside job, all "energetically," "with diligence," and "great care."
This is a great lesson for my daughter regarding her new job, but a great reminder for myself, as well. I wonder what grade God is giving me.
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