Switching gears this time, rather than focusing on freedom from debt, we’ll highlight what God’s Word says about being the best you can be in earning a living, as this will also benefit our finances.
God desires for us to increase our learning throughout our lives, Proverbs 18:15 says “The mind of the prudent is ever getting knowledge, and the ear of the wise is ever seeking (inquiring for and craving) knowledge.” This applies to us whether we are still in school, learning a trade, or a seasoned and experienced employee. We can always gain more knowledge which will increase our value in the workplace.
Many times in the Word God confirms to us the relationship of work to sustaining ourselves. From the basic - The appetite of the laborer works for him, for [the need of] his mouth urges him on (Proverbs 16:26), to the more obvious - In all labor there is profit, but idle talk leads only to poverty (Proverbs 14:23).
Once in the workplace, believers in Christ have the opportunity to let their light shine by following God’s direction for them. Colossians 3:23 encourages us “Whatever may be your task, work at it heartily (from the soul), as [something done] for the Lord and not for men.” We see also that enlightened focus in Ephesians 6:5 “Servants (slaves), be obedient to those who are your physical masters, having respect for them and eager concern to please them, in singleness of motive and with all your heart, as [service] to Christ [Himself].”
God is honored in our work when we seek to do our best every day, inspired by working unto Him, that effort will undoubtedly stand out from among the crowd. Proverbs 22:29 states “Do you see a man diligent and skillful in his business? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.”
As a result of our inspired commitment in working as unto the Lord, we can expect our efforts to be blessed – both in responsibility and financial increase. We also can take comfort in what the Lord says about our state, “The blessing of the Lord—it makes [truly] rich, and He adds no sorrow with it [neither does toiling increase it].” (Proverbs 10:22)
God bless you and may He show Himself greatly to you,
Paul
