We can’t do everything. With so much going on, it is impossible to be involved in it all; even every good thing. Therefore, we try to make choices so as to not spread ourselves too thin. Still, when our help is needed for something, what we simply refuse to do may say something about our attitude regarding ourselves. Sometimes there are those who respond, “That’s not my job.” Or others consider some tasks as being beneath them; they will not humble themselves enough to join others in the work.
During the time of Nehemiah — as he led the work in rebuilding the wall around Jerusalem — when he informed the leaders about the good hand of God that had been upon him and the work to be done, the response was “Let us rise up and build.” (Nehemiah 2:17) Though there were some not of the Jews who tried to discourage the work (i.e. Nehemiah 2:19), the work began. But who was involved? Was it merely the carpenters, masons, and stonecutters? Reading the list of families and individuals in chapter three, among those of various occupations who joined in to do the work we find the high priest and his brothers (vs.1), goldsmiths (vss.8 & 31), a perfumer (vs.8), some district rulers (vss.9, 12, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19), the daughters of a ruler (vs.12), Levites (vs.17), priests (vs.22 &28), temple servants (vs.26), and a gate keeper (vs.29). None of those responded as to it not being their job! However, we do read of some nobles who “would not stoop to serve their Lord.” (vs.5) It appears there are always some of those.
Though there were a few of the mindset such work was beneath them, we see many of various occupations and positions who joined in because of a mindset to do so! Despite continued ridicule to thwart the effort (Nehemiah 4:1-3), Nehemiah prayerfully remained engaged in the work. (Nehemiah 4:4-5) As the work continued to progress, we read. . .
“(6)So we built the wall. And all the wall was joined together to half its height, for the people had a mind to work.” (Nehemiah 4:6 ESV)
When it comes to labors together for the Lord, may we also grow in a “mind to work” along with our fellow brothers and sisters. Besides spiritual labors in which I engage as a preacher, some of my greatest joy has been in getting to know my brothers and sisters better through physical labors shared in together. Let us mind our mind as we consider opportunities for labors as they arise. May we guard against the attitude of some service being beneath us — or simply not our job — as we encourage one another in the works in need of being done for the benefit of one another and the glory of God!
Have a great day WITH AN ENGAGED MIND FOR ENGAGING ALONG WITH OTHERS!
Carl
