Are We Workers Or Shirkers?

The apostle Paul had some tough words for shirkers: “If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat” (2 Thessalonians 3:10). Some circumstances may make it impossible for some folks to work. But if we’re able-bodied and can find work, we must work with energy and diligence (Ecclesiastes 9:10). This is not just good advice but a command from an inspired apostle and from our Lord Jesus Christ (2 Thessalonians 3:12; cf. Ephesians 4:28). Slothfulness is sin.

Paul also had a word for workers: “Do not grow weary in doing good” (2 Thessalonians 3:13; cf. Gal. 6:9). Our work may seem mindless, offering little challenge or stimulation, but we can do it “heartily, as to the Lord” (Colossians 3:23).

All of us get weary in our work at times and may want to give up, but we can stay the course if we understand that we’re working for the Lord and ultimately for His eyes only (Ephesians 6:7). He is an employer who sees and knows all we do, and He values what we do and why we do it. Knowing that God cares about our work gives meaning to all our actions, even though no one else notices or appreciates our hard work.

Michelangelo, painting in some obscure corner of the Sistine Chapel, was asked by one of his helpers why he lavished such attention on a part of the ceiling no one would ever see. He replied, “God will see.”

"Teach me, Lord, my God and King,
In all things Thee to see;
And what I do in anything,
To do it as for Thee!" —George Herbert

—Mike Riley, Gospel Snippets