When Work Feels Like Work

By Mike Henry Sr.

If I’m honest, I’m going through a rough patch at work. Of course, like everyone, most of the time I talk a good fight – but now I feel that a lot has passed me by, and I’m working hard for little appreciation. It’s a pain – but I know pain is a gift from God, drawing attention to problems. In this case, it seems it’s not the work that’s wrong, but the worker. Time to get back to the Word!

First – work was created as a benefit. Genesis 2:15 tells us that before the fall, “The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and keep it.” Work was God’s gift to man, and man’s service to God.

Second – the element of toil was added as part of the discipline sin requires; “By the sweat of your face you shall eat bread” (Genesis 3:19). This verse reminds me that my work is a lot pleasanter than most people’s! I don’t have sweat pouring down my face very often – except perhaps when I’m trying to sell a jury of my peers on my latest bright idea!

Third – If I’m not prepared to keep on putting in the work, things won’t ever be any better than they are now! “If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.” (2 Thess. 3:10). Nobody owes me a living if I won’t, at least, do the best I can!

And next, the natural link. You get what you pay for. “Do not be deceived: God is not mocked, for whatever one sows, that will he also reap.” (Gal 6:7). If I don’t feel appreciated, what am I not “sowing”? Am I not appreciating the efforts of others? Am I not making my own efforts visible?

Last – of course, as usual, I’m missing the point. “And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.” (Col. 3:17). The work is not for me, or by me, or from me. It’s from, and through, and for, the One I’m following.

OK, that’s better. My head’s on straight. It’s time to get back to work.

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This post was written by Mike Henry, Sr. of Follower of One. To connect with Mike, see the information in

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