21st century life is really not so different from life in Paul’s time. Yes, we have lots of new technology and we have social systems an NHS and structures in place to care for people but people are fundamentally still the same. There are those who will work hard, who are ambitious and determined to make a difference and there are those who are less concerned about putting in physical effort or trying to make a difference. It is the way of the world and probably always will be.
Paul teaches that it shouldn’t be like that. He’s much more rigorous in his teaching that our modern world might be. He says the rule is, “If a man will not work, he shall not eat.”
The truth is that if everyone pulls their weight the world is a better place to live in. The burden that rests upon everyone is lighter and life becomes simpler. Communities function better, people have a purpose and direction in life and problems are reduced. We even have a proverb or two about it such as, “the devil makes work for idle hands” meaning that idleness and lack of purpose is dangerous.
You can apply the same line of thinking to life in church. The church family or community works best when we all use the gifts we have as a blessing to those around us. Not only does it make life easier for others but it gives each of us a purpose and direction and even more importantly it gives us a sense of value and worth. Sadly, we often lack a sense of value and worth and it leads to poor mental health and depression.
So, let’s not be idle. Let’s be people who do life together, blessing each other with the things we’re capable of doing.
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Questions:
What is your purpose in life? What direction are you moving in? How are you contributing to life in your community or in the church? Is there something else that you could do?
Prayer:
Holy Spirit, would You give us a nudge. Would You inspire us to be all that we can be for the Kingdom of God in this world? Would You show us the places where we can be a blessing to others and a witness for You in the way we live. Fill us again today Lord with everything that heaven has to offer. For Your glory Lord we ask. Amen.