1 Thessalonians 4:11
In the previous posts of this series, we have looked at how to live quietly and minding your own business, you can read them here: Part 1, Part 2.
This final post in the series will focus on working with your hands.
...work with your hands...
"...and to aspire to live quietly, and to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we instructed you.." (ESV)
Those who Paul referred to as busybodies, in 2 Thessalonians 3:11, had one thing in common, they were all idle. Idle or lazy people have nothing to do, so they fill up their time with the affairs of others. We’re called to work. Doing a good days work no matter what we do, fulfils God’s will in our lives.
The Thessalonians thought that Jesus was going to come soon and that it was better to wait for him than to work. They didn’t see the point in working if Christ was coming soon. Many of them also sold their possessions in preparation for Christ’s return and so they were not able to provide for themselves. Because of this other people around them resented the fact that they seemed so dependant and lazy.
We should be prepared for the Lords return, but we need to also continue to work at whatever task has been placed in our hands. We need to see the Lord in everyday affairs.
The early church was very generous by sharing what they had, but this wasn’t an excuse for people to rely on handouts and not put any work in themselves. If our view of the second coming makes us people who are not useful or don’t contribute it’s a wrong view. We shouldn’t be so heavenly minded and spiritual that we are of no benefit to anyone. Believing that Christ is coming in a few days doesn’t mean that we shouldn’t work hard, so that the fruit of our labour last for many years.
The Thessalonians should have used Paul example from 1 Thessalonians 2:9-10. Paul showed how to be diligent when he was in Thessalonica by working with his hands to support himself.
How we work reflects our character. Poor work is not a good testimony for the kingdom of God. It does not bear good witness. We need to show the world that our faith makes us better workers and members of the community.
We should always ask ourselves what God would see if he where to look upon us. Would he see someone working diligently, cutting corners or lazing about. When you are seen to be busy you gain respect from those around you. You also have provision for yourself instead of relying on everyone else.
Be conscious of our image in front of non believers. How we live our lives as Christians is seen by them, we have to conduct ourselves in a way that reflects the light of Jesus.
So always be encouraged to live quietly, mind your own affairs and busy yourself with work.
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