Family Business

Scripture:

"In everything that he undertook ... he sought his God and worked wholeheartedly. And so he prospered." (2 Chronicles 31:21) 

Reading:

With summer ending, I am reminded that God has not promised an eternal vacation. He has promised to meet our needs and guide us into an abundant life through a relationship with Him. Work is one way in which God grows these promises to fruition.

Work is any place where you add value, whether that is nurturing the souls within your family or influencing thousands of people. From a kingdom perspective, work is not about position, power, or even a paycheck. Work is an opportunity to reveal the heart and ways of your Heavenly Father.

Consider that Jesus ran His Father's business here on earth. How? He stayed close to His Father. Likewise, Christ tells us to abide in His love for apart from Him we can do nothing (John 15:1-17). 

God has not called us to productivity as the world preaches. He has not asked us to create a 5-year plan or pursue something bigger or better. He has called us to abide in Christ. In this pursuit through scripture, prayer, and obedience, we create friendship with the Lord which yields true value.

You too have been assigned a role in your Heavenly Father's family business. He has asked you to be salt and light to the people in your sphere of influence. Cultivate a close friendship with the Lord and He will produce through your work what pleases Him, blesses you, and truly benefits others.

Reflection:

1. Am I praying daily for God's wisdom? Do I follow through on what He reveals?

2. Do I work on what God leads me to do and with my best effort?

May God's favor rest upon you as You seek Him and work wholeheartedly in your current role.

Prayer:

Father God, I praise You for making my work count. Please help me to abide in Your love and work with an awareness of Your Spirit so that others may encounter Your goodness. Thank You for working on my behalf as I seek and serve You. In Jesus Christ's name I pray. Amen.