We live in a mixed-up world. Priorities are out of order. Values have been inverted. There are even times when the scales of justice seem out of balance. Serious focus is often placed on the less urgent while the truly important goes neglected. Someone has expressed it this way: “Most people tend to worship their work, to work at their play, and to play at their worship.” [source: bulletin clipping] Today consider the first portion of that quotation and Lord Willing we will consider the others over the next two days.
There are those in this world who view themselves as being defined by their work; it is the essence of who they are. Others get so focused on their work they fail to acknowledge the contributions of others associated with it. It’s all about themselves and they will do whatever they can to get full credit for any successes that come about while blaming others for any failures.
It is good to be serious about our work, but we must also maintain a clear perspective of our own part among many and keep the attitude in check. Our work or the works of our hands are not to be worshiped though what we do may still be offered up to the glory and praise of God.
When it comes to work, Paul exhorted slaves to possess the following perspective where we read. . .
“(23) Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, (24) knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.” (Colossians 3:23-24 ESV)
And with regard to life lived in general under the sun, Solomon urged. . .
“(10) Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might, for there is no work or thought or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol, to which you are going.” (Ecclesiastes 9:10 ESV)
Both of these passages point toward a good work ethic. And while Solomon noted this realm as the place and time for work, Paul directed the focus beyond the immediate benefit of service to others to the realization of it being done for Christ!
To worship what we do is just a step away from worshiping ourselves. What we do in the way of offering our life as a “living” sacrifice “holy and acceptable to God” — that is “spiritual worship.” (Romans 12:1 ESV) May we be actively doing works pleasing to God and worthy of the life He has given us in which to do them!
Have a great day WORKING TO PLEASE THE GOD WE WORSHIP!
Carl
