THERE IS DIGNITY IN LABOUR

“For even when we were with you, this we commanded you, that if any would not work, neither should he eat”. 2 Thessalonians 3:10 (KJV)

 

Apostle Paul, in his second epistle to the church in Thessalonica, admonishes the brethren to “…withdraw from every brother who walks disorderly…” 2 Thessalonians 3:6 (NKJV). What was Paul referring to as disorderliness? Not doing anything.

 

Happy Workers’ Day. Today, as we celebrate Workers, I come to remind you that there is dignity in labour! Rather than begging, decide to work with your hands. Begging is an insult to redemption. It is an abuse of the finished work of Christ for anyone who says he is a believer to turn into a beggar. God has invested so much in you.

 

Paul said he chose to work in order to set an example for the people. “Not because we do not have authority, but to make ourselves an example of how you should follow us.” 2Thessalonians 3:9 (NKJV). In other words, you should sponsor us by right, but we chose to live by example. That is how to live. You should explore. You should dig deep inside yourself and discover what you have.

 

You are clearly in error if you just sit around in the morning, watching movies rather than engaging. The Apostle Paul said if you cannot work, you should not eat. There is no sentiment about this. It is disorderliness for a Christian to live without doing something. There is joy when you work and then you go back home, sit down, and see the results of your efforts. There is dignity in labour.

 

“But as for you, brethren, do not grow weary in doing good.” Thessalonians 3:13 (NKJV). In other words, those of you who are already engaged, keep on doing it. God is putting a propeller in your engagements. He is putting speed on your wings. Apostle Paul concluded by saying: “And if anyone does not obey our word in this epistle, note that person and do not keep company with him, that he may be ashamed. Yet do not count him as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.” 2 Thessalonians 3:14-15 (NKJV). Don’t be slothful! Arise and take your place.

 

Further Reading: 2 Thessalonians 3:6-16

Daily Bible Reading: Morning- 1 Kings 10-11; Evening- Luke 21:20-38