Why Hard Work with God Leads to True Success

Why Good Men Work Hard and Sleep Well

Have you ever looked at a lazy man and felt a sense of pity? It's easy to recognize the tragedy of someone who is overwhelmed by even the simplest responsibilities. They are paralyzed by absurd fears and unable to provide for themselves or others. Their cravings are never satisfied, and their lack of productivity slowly destroys them. We strive not to become like them, knowing that laziness leads to ruin (Proverbs 22:13, 20:4, 19:24, 10:26, 21:25).

However, it's important to recognize that not all forms of hard work are fruitful. Some may seem productive on the surface, but without the Lord's guidance and blessing, they are ultimately in vain (Psalm 127:1).

The Futility of Work Without God

Imagine a man building a house without the Lord's involvement. He labors tirelessly, pouring his sweat and energy into the project. Yet, despite his efforts, the house crumbles and falls apart. All his hard work was in vain because he failed to seek God's wisdom and guidance in his endeavor.

Similarly, imagine a watchman diligently staying awake to guard a city. He is vigilant and dedicated to his task. However, without the Lord's watchful eye over the city, his efforts are futile. He cannot truly protect the city without God's intervention.

These examples illustrate the futility of work without God. No matter how hard we toil or how dedicated we are, our efforts will ultimately be in vain if we do not acknowledge and seek God's involvement.

The Blessing of Work with God

On the other hand, when we partner with God in our work, it becomes meaningful and fruitful. God's guidance and blessing bring purpose and fulfillment to our labor.

When the Lord builds the house, it stands firm and serves its purpose. The labor invested in it is not in vain because it is built on a foundation of God's wisdom and strength. Likewise, when the Lord watches over the city, the watchman's efforts are effective and valuable. The city is protected and its inhabitants can rest secure.

Working with God brings a sense of peace and confidence. We can trust that our efforts are not in vain, but rather part of a greater plan that God is orchestrating. This knowledge allows us to work diligently and wholeheartedly, knowing that our labor is not in vain (1 Corinthians 15:58).

Living in the Light of God's Guidance

As we navigate the year 2023 and beyond, it is crucial to remember the importance of seeking God's guidance in our work. Our world is constantly changing, and the challenges we face require wisdom and discernment. By aligning ourselves with God's will, we can make informed decisions and pursue endeavors that truly make a difference.

It's easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of life, striving to achieve success by our own strength. However, true success comes from surrendering our plans and ambitions to God, allowing Him to lead and direct us. When we work in partnership with God, we can experience a sense of peace and fulfillment that transcends worldly achievements.

So let us be good men and women who work hard and sleep well, not because of our own efforts, but because we trust in the Lord's guidance and provision. Let us seek His wisdom in all that we do, knowing that when we work with God, our labor is not in vain.

References:

1. Proverbs 22:13 - "The sluggard says, 'There is a lion outside! I shall be killed in the streets!'"


2. Proverbs 20:4 - "The sluggard does not plow in the autumn; he will seek at harvest and have nothing."


3. Proverbs 19:24 - "The sluggard buries his hand in the dish and will not even bring it back to his mouth."


4. Proverbs 10:26 - "Like vinegar to the teeth and smoke to the eyes, so is the sluggard to those who send him."


5. Proverbs 21:25 - "The desire of the sluggard kills him, for his hands refuse to labor."


6. Psalm 127:1 - "Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain. Unless the Lord watches over the city, the watchman stays awake in vain."


7. 1 Corinthians 15:58 - "Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labor is not in vain."