May 19, 2012 (1 Kings 4-5; 2 Chronicles 2; Psalm 101; 2 Thessalonians 3)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “We command such people and urge them in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and work to earn their own living.” 2 Thessalonians 3:12 NLT
Observation: Some people were falsely teaching that because Christ would return any day people should just quit work and do nothing but wait on Christ to return. These idle people ended up filling their time with less than helpful activities, like gossip and meddling in other peoples business. Paul, Silas and Timothy led by example. Paul reminded them to remember that when they were there with them they always worked and payed their own way. They worked hard day and night so that they would never become a burden to them. Paul commanded and urged them to follow his example and get to work!
Application: We can easily find ourselves focused on the wrong type activities if we allow ourselves to become lazy. The Christian must work hard at all we do, and do it as if we are working for the Lord, no matter what we are doing. Leaders in ministry must work extra hard to put forth the right example and never become a burden to the church due to laziness. To work hard does not mean one should never rest or play, for rest and recreation are vitally important in any healthful human being. We simply must remember and discipline ourselves to work when we should be working, and rest when we should be resting. We work with our hands so that our hands will be filled with good things to enjoy, along with enough to give for others to enjoy as well.
Prayer: Dear Lord, I love You so much! You are the awesome God of the universe and above You there is no other! Thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me everyday. Thank You for providing me the ability and opportunity to work. Help me make the most of the opportunities You give to me, for Your glory. Help me lead by example and not become a burden to those who could be influenced by me. Help me encourage people to live in a way that pleases You. Thank You for the people you have placed in my life that are teaching me how to work and how to give, in Jesus name, Amen!