We celebrate Labor Day on the first Monday of September each year to recognize the contributions of resilient, hardworking Americans to the well-being, prosperity, and strength of the United States.
It is often a time of picnics, BBQs, or just a day of rest. It is an opportunity for Christians to reflect on their role as workers and their effect on their employers and the workforce.
Colossians 3:23 And whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men;
Colossians 3:23 reminds us that our labor is not in vain. A commitment to diligent work helps to build great nations. Employers may not always be the best bosses, but as Christians, we should strive not only for a human boss but for our heavenly Father. GOD observes our work and sees if we are giving our best. Are you putting in excellent work?
Proverbs 27:18 Whoso keepeth the fig tree shall eat the fruit thereof: so he that waiteth on his master shall be honored.
Our effort in the workplace leads to fruitful outcomes. Proverbs 27:18 also tells us to guard our employer’s time and resources. Take care of the resources that you use responsibly. We should be resourceful and prepared each day for the tasks before us.
Ephesians 6:5-6
5 Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ;
6 Not with eyeservice, as men-pleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart;
Ephesians 6:5-6 speaks to the character of servants; those in service. We work for pay, but we should also come to work with a cheerful outlook and be friendly to the other coworkers. We should respect the authority of our managers and supervisors, not just in front of their faces but behind their backs, thus displaying our integrity.
Hebrews 13:17 Obey them that have the rule over you and submit yourselves: for they watch for your souls, as they that must give account, that they may do it with joy, and not with grief: for that is unprofitable for you.
Hebrews 13:17 acknowledges that people in leadership, like us, must also give an account to GOD, a higher authority. Leaders and Managers should create a harmonious environment that fosters productivity, cooperation, and growth. Everyone has had a manager or two that were poor examples of leadership. This challenges our patience. We also have had supervisors who have made human mistakes. We must resist the urge that causes us to put in sloppy work. Being known as the employee who loses their cool, who is contentious, with constant complaints, will get you nowhere. Use the means that the company offers to properly voice your complaints or find a new place of employment. Do not let your work and your reputation suffer because of poor leadership.
Your diligence in performing your job well blesses you and those around you. Putting in excellent work also contributes to your overall job satisfaction, mental health and well-being. Your work will open new doors for promotion or a job referral for your next career.
GOD wants all HIS children to be prosperous in the work that they choose to do. Embrace a commitment to excellence. One of the best celebrations of an excellent job done is the well-deserved rest that follows.