Why Do We Labor?

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What do you think of when you hear... Labor Day? For most, it means a day off of work. It also marks the unofficial end of summer and lots of sales for those eager to find a bargain. For me, it means a day of bathroom remodeling and painting. It's no fun to labor on Labor Day, but I'm thankful to have the time and the ability to complete the task.

More than sixty countries around the world have designated days to recognize their workers. Celebrated on the first Monday of September, Labor Day honors the American workforce and the achievements made through trade and labor organizations. It became a federal holiday in 1894, but thirty states were already celebrating it with Oregon being the first in 1887. While most consider 40 hours a week a full load, it's a lot less than the average 70-hour weeks those of the 1830s were expected to work. I'm certainly glad those changes were made as Rusty puts in lots of overtime, but even he doesn't work 70 hours a week.

As far back as the Garden of Eden, God expected His creation to work and in the New Testament, we see Paul emphasizing the importance of it to the church at Thessalonica. He was basically giving them a warning not to be lazy busybodies.

Whether we're working to keep ourselves busy and out of trouble or for a paycheck to support our families, we know that work is important, and it has its place in God's design. However, we can stay busy with the many tasks of this world and never accomplish what we were put here to do if we lose focus of who we are supposed to labor for. If we work as though God is our boss and treat every day as a day of labor for the Lord, we will not work in vain. 

The Lord God took the man and put him in the garden of Eden to work it and keep it. -Genesis 2:15

For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat. For we hear that some among you walk in idleness, not busy at work, but busybodies.  Now such persons we command and encourage in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living. -2 Thessalonians 3:10-12

Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ. -Colossians 3:23-24

Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain. -1 Corinthians 15:58


We Do Not Labor In Vain - Faithful




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