“Three Rules of Work: Out of clutter find simplicity; From discord find harmony; In the middle of difficulty lies opportunity.” ~ Albert Einstein
Work is good. When God created Adam, He put him in the garden to work and farm the land. God’s original design was six days of work and one day of rest. When we are engaged in work with a purpose that matches our passions and abilities, we will find satisfaction in our work.
The key to finding personal fulfillment through your work is in having a positive attitude and being intentional about making the best out of every situation. Attitude leaks. The attitude people have about their work will leak out and affect those they work with. This is true for both positive and negative attitudes.
Good leaders are very intentional about modeling a good attitude and guarding their team from any team member who has a bad attitude. A good attitude at work along with good work habits will positively affect all of life. People who never learn a good work ethic tend to also carry their lazy and complaining attitude into other areas of their lives. Here’s what Paul wrote about the value of work:
Even while we were with you, we gave you this command: “Those unwilling to work will not get to eat.” Yet we hear that some of you are living idle lives, refusing to work and meddling in other people’s business. We command such people and urge them in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and work to earn their own living. As for the rest of you, dear brothers and sisters, never get tired of doing good. (2 Thessalonians 3:10-13 NLT)
Paul wasn’t messing around when he established the policy that “if you don’t work, you don’t eat.” He noted that those who are idle tend to stir up trouble. They have no discipline in their lives and will end up dragging others down with them through their complaining and trouble making. Do you know anyone like this?
Note the last phrase of the passage that says “never get tired of doing good”. Good workers are good people who naturally do good in their community. A clear sense of purpose and fulfillment generates energy that will keep you from getting tired of doing good. Christian leaders have a responsibility to give their team a compelling purpose for their work. This verse would make a great sign to place on your desk or display in your business:
Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people. (Colossians 3:23 NLT)
Think of your work as an act of worship today as you seek to please God through all that you do. Lead your team with passion and conviction to do a good job with a good attitude and everyone will experience a greater sense of fulfillment from their work.