Finding contentment in your work

‘Enjoy your work…this is indeed a gift from God.’ Ecclesiastes 5:19 NLT

Two-thirds of your adult life will be spent earning a living, and God wants you to enjoy it: ‘To enjoy your work and accept your lot in life – this is indeed a gift from God.’ Try to realise that God has a purpose for your being where you are. ‘The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD’ (Psalm 37:23 NKJV). When you understand that, you begin to rejoice on the job rather than resent it, and believe that God has a plan for your future. It may be a different job, a promotion in your present job, or improving your skill set, which will result in your feeling fulfilled, knowing you are a valued and contributing team member. So with one eye on the present and another on the future, your goal should be to perform your responsibilities with efficiency and professionalism, and glorify the One whose name you carry. Learn all you can from your current position – both in skill building and in character building. Prepare yourself for what God has in mind. So what if others overlook or undervalue you? David’s family didn’t think he was qualified to be Israel’s next king, but God had a different opinion. He also had the last word. There’s an important lesson here for you. Be faithful and seek to excel where God has placed you, and when the time is right He will bless you and promote you. ‘It is God alone who judges; he decides who will rise and who will fall’ (Psalm 75:7 NLT).

Prayer Point:

Lord, help me to see my work as a gift from You. In those times when I’m finding my work challenging, please draw close to me and remind me that I can find contentment in knowing that I’m where You want me for the present. I pray that I would always glorify and honour You through my attitude towards my work. Thank You that You encourage me to do my best and give me opportunities to learn and grow. Amen.  

Acknowledgements: Jakes, T.D., The Ten Commandments of Working in a Hostile Environment (New York: Berkley, 2003).