(Psalm 127:1-2)
When our vision is to live and work for our own glory, and when we see success as the “be all and end all,” the road can be lonely and the burden heavy. But when our vision is to serve God, it’s a different story. As Victor Hugo wrote, “When you have accomplished your daily task, go to sleep in peace. God is awake.”
I try to view the work I do in this way: it isn’t my work; it’s God’s work and He has included me in it. That is very freeing. We are called to do our part as best we can, with commitment and integrity and pride. But our work isn’t our primary purpose on this earth.
The real purpose of my life is to be close to the light and love of Jesus Christ. That’s where my true identity is found – not in work or skills or accolades. Living with Christ as our purpose, guide and helper changes how we approach life. Life is no longer about us, about what we can gain or accumulate for ourselves. Ther is a much more fulfilling path and a much less futile way to spend our days.
“Unless the LORD builds the house, the builders labor in vain. Unless the LORD watches over the city, the guards stand watch in vain. In vain you rise early and stay up late.”
Psalm 127:1-2
Let’s make sure we are working for a greater cause than ourselves. We won’t always manage this, and we all get distracted from time to time, but there is huge power and freedom when we cease thinking of our work as “ours” and when we start to let God take the lead. From experience, I know that He will always be better at being in charge. He sees it all, He can bless it all, and he can help with it all. Our job is to just keep going, faithfully, humbly onward.
“Be strong and do not give up, for your work will be rewarded.”
2 Chronicles 15:7
Rich blessings as you serve the LORD,
Pastor John