The Special of the Day… From the Orange Moon Cafe…
(For Frances, the inspiration and example)
“Joys and Jobs”
One letter separates the words “joy” and “job.” The former means something far more than happiness in Biblical terms, but rather a deeply settled assurance of the heart through the presence and working of the Lord Jesus Christ. The latter applies not only to the workplace, but to any task we necessarily perform in order to survive and thrive in this present world. Both are completely related to one another.
“Whatsoever ye do, do it heartily as to the Lord” (Colossians 3:23).
In a generation ever seeking entertainment, God’s joy in Christ lies primarily in the fulfillment of the tasks and responsibilities of life. Certainly, we may and even should enjoy our proper leisures and pastimes. Scripture calls us to rejoice in our Lord always (Philippians 4:4). However, God made us to be doers of that which produces true benefit, requiring diligence and applied effort. True joy known in God - “heartily” - lies in the realization the fulfillment of our hearts ever lies in first doing that which needs to be done, rather than that which we desire to do. In fact, fulfillment of responsibility is actually that which the believer’s heart most desires as God works therein “both to will and to do of His good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13).
Thus, “joy” and “job” defined rightly in terms of Scripture must be viewed as inseparable companions. “The sweat of thy face” required to function in this present world, along with whatever challenging sacrifices must be made to fulfill our tasks, offers the deepest experience of God’s presence, working, and contentment of spirit (Genesis 3:19). In proper mode and measure, amusements have their place. We may enjoy them as gifts of God. Of far more import and impact, however, are the tasks at hand that have so much potential to become the satisfaction of our hearts. Yes, our truest experience of joy lies in our jobs, and our jobs offer joys in Christ entertainments can never provide.
“Be ye doers of the Word, and not hearers only.”
(James 1:22)
“Whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.”
(I Corinthians 1:31)
Weekly Memory Verse
Being confident of this very thing, that He which hath begun a good work in you will perform it until the day of Jesus Christ.”(Philippians 1:6).
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