Wiser and Happier: Special Military Edition from Time of GraceSample

Work Ethic: Work hard

It is undeniable that the poor have a special place in God’s heart. He promises over and over to look after the poor, the needy, widows, outcasts, and orphans. Perhaps you have survived some desperate times in your life through God’s timely intervention. What a comfort it is to know that if we do suffer financial setbacks or stretches of unemployment, God will be there for us.

However--God’s compassion for the poor doesn’t mean that poverty is acceptable as a life goal for you and your children. Poverty sometimes must be suffered and endured but never settled for if God has given you opportunities to advance. “A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest—and poverty will come on you like a bandit and scarcity like an armed man” (Proverbs 6:10,11).

Jesus said once, “My Father works, and I work.” Those of us who are fathers have a special obligation and commission to mentor and teach young people to grow out of their instinctive laziness and choose to love work. Those of us who have men and women under our command have the duty to demonstrate what it means to work hard.

Some of my greatest personal heroes are retired people who have never slowed down. They are now free to work for God according to their passion. One day, God willing, you will retire from your military service. Don’t forget, though, that as long as God lets you breathe, you still have work to do. And that’s a good thing.