All hard work brings a profit…” – Proverbs 14:23 (NIV)
The dictionary describes “work” as:
1. ‘To do a job that you are paid for.’
2. ‘A job or activity that you do regularly, especially in order to earn money.’
From the definition, one can deduce that work is beneficial to the worker. We can therefore imply that work is honourable. We all have needs and must work (while we can) to meet those needs.
Almighty God designed us to meet our needs through work from the inception – Genesis 2:15. When one refuses to work, that person denies himself the opportunity to fulfill his purpose. God created us with His characteristics within us, so we are expected to act as He acts – God works. To realise our potential demands, we admit that we need to work.
Work profits the worker. The plans of the diligent lead to profit (Proverbs 21:5) by providing for physical needs. 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12 (NIV) tells us, “…make it your ambition to lead a quiet life: You should mind your own business and work with your hands….so that your daily life may win the respect of outsiders and so that you will not be dependent on anybody.”
We all have financial responsibilities. To take care of these, we must work. The apostle Paul provided for his own needs by making tents – 1 Thessalonians 2:6-9. He did not depend only on others to meet his daily needs. Instead, he worked whenever possible for his living.
The same is required of us. We must not become a burden on others but work to provide for ourselves and our families. Let us not shirk our responsibilities. God gave us work so that we may earn the bread we eat. Let’s get down to work because “All hard work brings a profit.”
Read: Proverbs 10:22; Colossians 3:23
Bible Reading Guide: Psalm 25:16-22; Mark 7:31-37; Mark 8:1-13; Exodus 35; Exodus 36
