Monday, September 21, 2015

its own reward

Today's readings: Isaiah 37:1-38:22, Gal 6:1-18, Psalm 65:1-13, Prov 23:24

In Galatians today, we are given great advice. (Good job, Paul!) He says in verse 4 "Pay attention to your own work, for then you will get the satisfaction of a job well done, and you won't need to compare yourself to anyone else."

So much truth packed into that one sentence. I've noticed the best thing to do when I'm at work is to get busy with the work. If I focus on what I'm doing, the time goes by faster. And studies show that we are happiest when we're focused on what we're doing at the moment, rather than on the past or the future. Losing yourself in your work can be very satisfying.

And Paul points out that we receive "the satisfaction of a job well done." Just knowing that you did a good job gives you a good feeling. But it also, as is mentioned throughout Scripture, brings attention from others, and gives you a good reputation.

But yet another added benefit is that "you won't need to compare yourself to anyone else." Have you ever noticed that? The people who complain about how little others are doing are almost never the ones who are enjoying their work and receiving "the satisfaction of a job well done." Rather they're the ones trying to get away with as little work as possible, and they get mad when they see someone getting away with less than they're doing! :)

So Paul's good advice is very practical today: do good work, and reap the rewards.

Thank You, God, for good, honest work, and the pleasant tired that comes afterward.

1 comment:

Julie said...

It always makes me feel good when I read the last page of a book, pay the last bill, fold the last piece of laundry, etc.......it's a job finished and I have remained focused on the job to its completion. Thank you God.