What’s the Point in Working? - Day 78

What's the Point in Working?

By Mike Stickler

Ephesians 4:28
Anyone who has been stealing must steal no longer, but must work, doing something useful with their own hands, that they may have something to share with those in need.

The other day, I read that 50% of the budget of the U.S. government now goes to entitlement programs. Politics and accusations of intent aside, I think we can all agree that’s an awful lot of people getting an awful lot of money for not doing an awful lot of work (beyond filling out a few forms), as Paul writes here.

In all good conscience, can anyone say that that this massive amount of people really cannot work—or should be structurally prevented from working? Or does our culture no longer sees honor in a person working, creating, laboring, designing, engineering… You get where I’m going.

Anyone who desires to live more generously needs to come into agreement that working and being “useful with their own hands” has an ultimate purpose, which is, to give to those who are in need beyond their ability to produce. It is safe to say that giving starts with working.

How do we break this culture of entitlement?

I believe we need to start with repenting the thought of getting something for nothing, which misses the biblical pattern. Next, we need to quit cheating our boss or our customers and give them an honest day’s labor – that is expected. Then, we need to instill in our children, those principals of working, earning, and giving.

Through this repentance we will steal no longer. And in return, give all the more.

Today’s Generosity Challenge:
Commit to arriving 20 minutes early every day to work, and then leave 15 minutes after your scheduled end of workday. Be fully present while on the job, avoiding personal tasks (internet surfing, etc.) and distractions. Decide that during this time you will be the best employee the company has ever had. Also look for times where you can do little favors for others as they do their jobs, or just help make their workday a bit easier or better. ... whatever you do, do all to the glory of God.

Write your answers down here on how this change in practice has affected your giving.

About Michael Stickler

Mike is an author, radio host, and a highly sought after motivational speaker. His best-selling book, A Journey to Generosity, is widely acclaimed throughout the Christian community. He is the publisher of Generous Living Magazine and writes for the Christian Post, 'A Generous Life' column.