Don't Be Lazy

When it comes to work, whatever that means in your context, there are two equally destructive extremes. At one end is the workaholic, prepared to sacrifice health and family on the altar of success. At the other lies the sloth, that lazy individual who'll do the least amount possible. In 16th-century Japan, two samurai brothers served a local lord. Motoharu trained daily, studied strategy, and led with tireless discipline. Takakage, though equally gifted, preferred leisure, delaying in obeying orders and basically neglecting his duties. When battle came, Motoharu's forces held firm—Takakage's faltered. The contrast was clear: one reaped the fruit of effort, the other the shame of laziness. That's a contrast you see playing itself out pretty regularly. I've even seen it in ministry. Some have come to our organisation expecting the work to be easy. After all, it's a Christian outfit. It's all about love (which it is), so I can just coast along with minimal effort (which they can't).  What about you? How do you approach whatever it is that constitutes work in your life? As you ponder that, here's God's take on your work life: Romans 12:11 As you serve the Lord, work hard and don't be lazy. Be excited about serving him! Laziness would have to be one of the least godly traits going around. Sure, we need to rest – the workaholic lifestyle is equally ungodly. But laziness, seriously, is a cancer that's robbing way too many people of the deep satisfaction that comes from exercising their unique gifts and abilities for the benefit of others. If you need to hear this today, then wake up. As you serve the Lord, work hard and don't be lazy. That's His Word. Fresh … for you … today.