Work: A Gift from God - Part 3

If you were asked to explain what gives meaning and purpose to your work, what would you say? A mother I know worked at a department store for years so her daughters could attend college. Personally, I worked as a young man so I could go to college and support my wife and daughter. God intended for work to give meaning and purpose to life because work is a necessity.

Some people see work as a drudgery and punishment from God. If this fits  your attitude, there will be little joy found in work, regardless of your position or salary. For work to be meaningful and purposeful it must hinge on an attitude that is compatible with God's plan for you. Work is a necessity for the development of integrity, self-esteem and independence.

Do you wonder why adult children of wealthy parents seek careers in public service? Creative work furthers God's plan for you while providing meaning and purpose that prevents stagnation and self-absorption from taking over. Colossians 3:23 offers this encouragement. "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord."  

From Industry to Identity - Part 2

Children begin early fantasizing about what they would like to be when they grow up. Can you remember daydreaming and planning your future? As a young adolescent, I imagined myself being the pilot of a supersonic jet fighter. I did serve in the Air Force, but not as a pilot. However I eventually discovered what I could do with my life.

Finding meaning and purpose for life hinges on identity - how I see myself. The main developmental task of adolescence is to lay the groundwork for identity, the person I want to become, as the world of childhood is slowly left behind. For the Christian teenager, it's important to believe God is providing direction and purpose for life.

A crucial awareness, whatever your age, acknowledges that identity is determined by God and your own decisions. Listen to Genesis 1:26. "Let us make man in our image, in our likeness." Acknowledging you are made in God's image provides a solid basis for self-worth and personal destiny. This determines what you choose to do with your life.