The Work that Matters

So often we think our job or work is not important. We wonder if our lives really mean anything, if they are really making a difference. ‘What have I done with it?’ we ask.

That is the devil at work, seeking to make you despair. In despair, we often turn to things that are not God. We begin to think along paths that the devil has wrought, and along such wide paths distractions arise in multitude. That is a dangerous way to go.

Instead, we can realize by God’s grace that what matters most in this world is our walk with God. 

Your relationship to the Almighty should take precedence over all else.

You may think that doctors or lawyers or firemen or scientists do more important work, and are therefore more important than . . . working that line of parts in your factory, or stocking shelves or working the cash register or driving trucks. But the bible says ‘Whatever your hands find to do, do it with all your might, as unto the Lord and not as unto men.’(Colossians 3:17) 

We would do well to realize that those apparently lofty careers, those people doing the ‘really important stuff’ are in fact worse off than you in their walk, for in their lofty work they are more prone to travel the line of pride-thinking. Many in those industries are self-sufficient; they believe that their work is important and so they believe they are superior. That is simply pride. God resists the proud, but gives grace to the humble (James 4:6).

Look at things as Colossians 3:2 directs us to:

‘Set your mind on things above, not on things on the earth.’ 

In the grand scheme of things, in light of eternity, doctors and lawyers and scientists and the work they do are no more important than stock-boys and cashiers and the people who pick up trash. It is our walk with God that matters in light of eternity.

And anyone can walk with Him. In fact, it is easier for those in humble jobs to touch eternal souls than it is for those in lofty prestigious careers. The lowly factory worker is more likely to be humble (or has a more likely chance of being made humble), and therefore of being open to God’s directing hand. And in this state, God can use you mightily.

Anyone can touch a soul and turn hearts to Christ. But those not seduced into pride by their position are more easily led to do what really matters. What is most important is being an ambassador for Christ. So the next time you go to work, or whatever your hands find to do, remember that you belong to Him. As His servant, you can make a difference that matters in light of eternity—and that is what really matters in this walk we call life. Only in this will we have peace with God.

Every day is a gift, an opportunity without prestige to walk with God and do His will. So, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. –And you shall love your neighbor as yourself’ Matthew 22:37-40.

Take joy in this, in knowing why you live, and in knowing whom you serve. Now may the God of hope fill all with joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit’ (Romans 15:13).