THOUGHTS ON THE TOPIC OF LABOR FROM THE BOOK OF WISDOM
Many of the proverbs we have considered in this series on labor have provided us a connection with financial success, stability and surety of needs being satisfied. For our verses this morning, I think the passages speak of something far more lasting than coin in the bank.
Proverbs 12:24 The hand of the diligent will rule, while the slothful will be put to forced labor.
Authority
In Proverbs 12:14, we see that diligence will place the worker in positions of authority. This statement proves itself over and over again in my work experience, for those who are continually providing service to the corporation, are continually being elevated to higher levels of authority.
We have all heard of the young worker who starts in the mailroom in the basement, and rises to the president of a business. This upward elevation in authority may be coined the American dream, but it is simply the outworking of this truth. Working diligently will bring respect and authority to one’s life.
Proverbs 12:14 From the fruit of his mouth a man is satisfied with good, and the work of a man’s hand comes back to him.
Reputation
At first glance, I considered this verse to be describing the diligent man’s efforts and labors as returning upon his life as a good reputation, a man or woman who is known for their quality work ethic.
That is not necessarily true, for the passage simply states that the reputation (good or bad) will come back to him. It is an inescapable judgement one carries of his life, and as time passes, the reputation solidifies. We are constantly leaving behind us history that defines us. In relation to labor, is our reputation that of a diligent worker, one who not only is increasing in authority, but enjoying the reputation of one who cares about their work?
In the Body of Christ, we revel in the grace of God, knowing of the Savior who provided a complete and eternal salvation that cannot be earned. And yet I fear this profound eternal truth may be twisted into a teaching that allows for a laziness about our lives, a freedom to let things slide, to not be “overly” concerned about our responsibilities.
As I am aging to the reward, I am becoming more and more senstive to the opportunities to labor for the Lord. Oh to labor properly in His plan for the remaining time we have!
1 Corinthians 15:58 herefore, 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.
Follow Considering the Bible on WordPress.com
Thanks again for coming to visit. I hope you found something of interest in this post and would appreciate a comment, to begin a discussion.
