by Jerry Senn
“Labor Day” has just passed, a day of celebrating the value and blessings of hard work in our culture. Everywhere we look we observe creative and amazingly useful results of the dedication of men and women. These have, for the most part, enhanced our lives.
The Bible says we should show honor for those who deserve honor. It also says, “if a man does not work, he should not be permitted to eat.” Clearly, since Adam and Eve were given work to do and all of us live our best lives by working at what “our hands find to do.”
Here are wise words from wise and successful men:
“I never did anything worth doing by accident, nor did any of my inventions by accident” (Thomas Edison, 1847-1931).
“The moment a man can really do his work, he becomes speechless about it; all words are idle to him; all theories. Does a bird need to theorize about building its nest, or boast of it when it is built? All good work is essentially done that way; without hesitation; without difficulty; without boasting” (John Ruskin, 1819-1900).
“He who would really benefit mankind must reach them through their work” (Henry Ford, 1863-1947).
The Scriptures speak about work:
“Commit your work to the Lord, and your work will be established.”
—Proverbs 16:2
“Whatever you do, work heartily; as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward.”
—Colossians 3:23, 24