Oftentimes, Scripture abounds with rich nuance. It reflects forward and backward, teasing out references to the Old Testament or the New. It can be read in layer after layer, each one peeled to reveal a deeper truth about our relationship to God and His to us. Sometimes, a passage is the opposite: it gives us truth, straight to the point. It tells us how to live, how to love, how to spend our money, how to be saved.
“Clarity is kindness,” is a phrase I live by, learned from my dearest mentor. In today’s passage from 2 Thessalonians, Paul is delivering the same kindness. There’s nothing nuanced, tucked between flowery phrases, hinting at something only the most educated will understand. Paul serves it straight up: work. Work hard. Don’t be lazy, or idle. And don’t grow weary in doing this good work (2Thessalonians 3:13).
Work was a creation mandate, established even before the fall. God worked (He created). Adam worked (he named the animals and had dominion over them). And for the rest of time since, the people made in God’s image work and will work. Was Paul talking about a 9-to-5 career, a desk job and an expense account? No, he wasn’t. In fact, the historical Protestant work ethic mixed in with the rags-to-riches American dream has undoubtedly distorted our view of work as a chiefly economic practice. But work is innate to our life and our calling as Christians, whether that work is at a Fortune 500 company, a grocery store, a school, caring for a sick parent, or taking care of a home and children. Paul doesn’t distinguish or categorize work: one type is not better or more righteous than the other. But he is clear on one thing: work matters.
Work is, in fact, critical to our flourishing as humans. Our witness to the gospel is bound up in our work, in the way we care for others and work for the good of those around us. In his book Every Good Endeavor, Tim Keller writes about work being a “channel of God’s love for his world.” So, if work—be it at home, at a hospital, in a church, or at a restaurant—is a way to carry God’s love outward, it makes sense that Paul would be aghast at idleness.
Work will bring weariness, pain, suffering, frustration. It will break us, mold us, and tempt us to create idols in our hearts. Work is broken by sin and ungodly motivations, but it still belongs to God. He made us to work, and Paul exhorts us to not grow weary in this good, good work of image-bearing, creating, and serving the God who loves us. He has commissioned us to be His ambassadors in this busy, working world.
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48 thoughts on "A Call to Responsibility"
I can’t definitely grow weary in doing good because I say yea to too many things. So I tend to burn out. So let me feel led to do the work the Holy Spirit is calling me to do and say no to anything else. Bc while there are plenty of good things in this world, we need to be able to say no to good things so we can say yes to the best things
This is exactly what I needed to hear today! I appreciate the love and the wisdom here so much ❤️❤️❤️
A timely reminder that the things I do at home as a wife and mother, while tedious at times, are a reflection of the Gospel of Love!
Blessed to still be able to be doing !!
Lord i thank you!
I shall do the work of the lord!
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May my work in and outside of the church glorify God. Let me never be idle, but remember to rest in Christ. Amen
Oops we ARE to love one another!
I read the scriptures here differently than I have before. I feel like the work Paul is referring to is the work for the Lord. Many times christians will twist these words and make them political. May we never retire or grow lazy from serving God and others. Hebrews 13:1-4 also states we should “stay on good terms with each other held together with love. Be ready with a meal or a bed when needed.” We are not to love one another and serve. This is what I think of when I read about work.
I recently became a stay at home mom when my daughter was born. It has definitely changed my view of “work.” Work doesn’t have to be something that you get payed for doing to make it important. I’m so thankful that I get the opportunity to stay home with her. I pray that even in the little ways I serve her, God would be glorified.
I love reading everyone’s thoughts and experiences! In battling severe depression myself, my work as a stay at home mom and wife has looked very different from what I had pictured. I have to remember that even with all the things I can’t do in this season, God sees the little I can do and it’s a pleasing offering to Him. Thankful for this study and for all of you ❤️
Our works on earth bring glory to God in Heavens. He ordains us in our good works, both to will and to carry out. “Do you see someone skilled in their work? They will serve before kings; they will not serve before officials of low rank.” (Proverbs 22:29). Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth (Proverbs 10:4). I am so humble to hear your stories of your works. May God bless the works of our hands, that whatever we do shall prosper (Psalm 1:3).
Thank you Adelynn for explaining further on ““do not associate with such persons, so that they may feel shame” (2 Thessalonians 3:14). I looked up on a Strong Concordance app and truly “Shame” here is to provoke those stagnant brothers to “respect and reverence”, as you said, not to belittle them. Thank you so much for that deep insight. That truly gives this instruction of Paul a whole new level of dignity.
I’ve never read in the Bible that we’re supposed to retire. We may retire from our original occupation, but we are to be engaged with others, serving others. I am blessed had almost 75 to still be able to tutor students with learning disabilities out of my home. I was even able to continue that how caring for my mother the last year-and-a-half of her life. I have a wonderful husband how to enable me to do that. I love that I can pour into the life of my students and they’re wonderful moms, using my spiritual gift of exhortation and encouragement. Idleness is not something I often experience, as I have six grown children and too many grandchildren. Of course I have many other problems with my flesh.
Unruly, undisciplined, doing no work at all, a busybody. How could these words possibly describe a fellow Christian? Surely not! Yet Paul uses those very words for certain Thessaloniki “brethren.” Paul challenged them to follow his example. He offers himself as a model. Ouch! Would I dare do the same?? Hmmmm
My father brought me up to believe that if you like what you do — the work you do — then you were meant to do it. I feel that if you like or even enjoy your job or occupation then it’s the job or occupation God meant for you to have. I have been an LPN (Licensed Practical Nurse) for over forty years and I enjoy nursing on the level I’m on. I don’t want to become an RN and I believe this is the career God and Christ has planned for me. I’m in a job I wouldn’t trade for anything right now. I have had multiple offers to make more money but I enjoy what I’m doing and I feel that’s what work is all about. I am thankful God gave me this position.
Be blessed sisters and have a great day.
For27 years I was a stay at home mom to 10 kiddos…my favorite job in the world …so grateful to my husband as the financial provider and grateful to God for giving me tools and friends along the way to help me stretch those hard earned dollars so that I COULD stay at home. 8 years ago it was necessary for me to find a job that would give us an extra $500 a month to pay for our portion of Heath insurance through my husband’s employer at that time. God provided me with the “perfect” job for me as a coffee hostess at a local convenience store/gas station. Nothing glamorous and I am the oldest employee there. But I get to help customers start their day with a good cup of coffee, latte, mocha…..a smile and some kind words. I am often asked to pray for someone and have been able to share a God-wink now and then. I always taught my children to have a good work ethic…help out wherever you are able, do your best and try to learn something new everyday. I pray that my co-workers (most as old as my children) will see the benefit of working together, of being of service to others, and that they will see Jesus in me while I look for Jesus in them.
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Clarity is kindness. I’ve never thought of it that way. But yet I see so much truth in this statement. I pray to be an instrument of your love, grace, peace, and joy. And that my faith and hope in You is evident. I pray for clarity. Thank you ladies for so much wisdom.
Good words. Lord, may my work at the office and at home bring you joy and may I honor you init and be a blessing to those you place in my path. God give me a heart to workat home and give me your peace in it. In Jesus name Amen. If you did not get a chance. Read HRT too very good. So blessed by you all and this ministry.
I love my job! I’ve been there just over 10 years. I work at a school. My overseer/boss is a personal friend of mine. She loves Jesus! And let me tell you, she is a great example of a Christ follower. And though our school is not a Christian school there are many Christians there. I need to remind myself that it’s a mission field. I told myself, I need to stop complaining, be an example to the nonbelievers as my overseer does. She has no favorites, treat everyone equally, she does not exalt herself because she is in charge yet as a servant. Age wise she’s a few years younger than me but she has shown such maturity. A few days ago when I was growing weary and as I was walking to work I reminded myself, I am the Christian. I need to set that example. And I wrote down what Churchmouse said the other day: “Rejoicing. Praying. Thanking. Does my face, my words, and my actions give evidence of these.” I emphasized on “my face”. What does my face look like. Even when I don’t agree or I feel that I’m not treated right. I remind myself, I am a Christian and I need to set an example just like my boss. I bear the name of Christ and I need a bear it well.
Loved this Angie!!! Thank you!!
I tend to think of myself as falling in today’s “hustle culture” view of work rather than idleness. In other words, I think of “work” as the economic and/or self-interested definition, and I have a hard time setting work-life boundaries for myself. And I think both views of work are problematic. So I loved the definition of work provided in today’s devo. I think about my husband who quietly picks up extra house chores during my school finals without me having to ask him to do so. He doesn’t get rewarded for this work, but his acts of service in the household during a busy and stressful 2+ weeks for me speaks volumes about his love for me. And it is a powerful witness. I’m going to look for opportunities to emulate him and to do some extra “work” for him and others without expecting a benefit (monetary like a standard job, recognition, etc.) in return.
@Rae Queen- this is soo on point. Thanks for sharing!!!
I found it interesting that right next to where Paul says, “do not associate with such persons, so that they may feel shame (reverence, awe, and respect) rather than the worlds idea of shame (not worthy) he includes the command, “do not grow tired of doing good.” Just like many commands in the Bible that seem to have tension. Stay away from the brother, but also life him and warn him as a friend. If he stays idle, he shouldn’t eat, but also don’t get tired of doing good.
I think these seemingly paradoxical commands are important. Often we can look at others and judge whether they deserve our help and generosity, but Paul says don’t get tired of doing good, don’t tire of serving the brother as you encourage and compel him not to be idle!
It was reminder of me to let God judge the heart, but follow his command to keep serving all no matter what! Because Christ first loved us and saved us when we were much more than idle, but spiritually dead! Have a wonderful day ladies, as always I am very grateful to all of you!
Phew. Needed to hear this as I graduate college in a couple weeks. Ahh just saying that is so crazy to me. There will be lots of tears, just because I love my school so much and the amazing people I have met hear. I am still waiting to hear back from a job I applied for…but I know ultimately, God is good. He is SO incredibly faithful!! That was what I learned my senior year of highschool, and man, it is STILL. SO. TRUE. He is faithful, despite myself. Thank you Lord. Help me go into the world as a channel of YOUR love towards others. Thank you.
We are equipped to do the good works God has for us through His Spirit who is in us. Praise God!
@Pamela Aileen-Such a good point! Thank you for your comment. I find myself in the same boat, often just doing the housework myself because it is easier and quicker. When I do give my children a task or job to do, I also am often met with the response of whining or complaining. But if we don’t train them when they are young, we will be met with even more resistance when they are older. I need to keep reminding myself of this, pray, take a breath, and push through the whining and complaining.
This was such a good word today! Holy smokes! Exactly what I needed to hear. I’ve been lacking motivation and it was the “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat” for me!
I love the thought that Paul isn’t talking about a for-pay job, but he’s talking about us “working” to further the kingdom of God. In every single area of our lives, we are either helping the Kingdom or hurting it by being idle. It really makes me look at how I “work” in all aspects of my life and where I am helping and where I might be hurting the Kingdom.
Amen!
@Regine Being unable to work because of an illness is such a HARD place to be. The truth that lives in tension is the abundance of Gods grace and mercy over us, his delight over us in the midst of our weakness. You are precious and deeply loved right as you are, right now in the midst of pain and not being able to DO. Praying that you will sense Gods deep delight over you today.
I got to school this morning. As I exited the car the sun was rising in the sky, bright and beautiful. I thanked God for it and took a step toward the door. When I turned for one last look, a tree was blocking my view of the sunrise. I moved a step and was able to see clearly again.
On vacation one morning, I was looking out into the woods. Many of the trees had their leaves started but there was one willowy tree just starting to shoot between those full of leaves.
Another morning an adorable baby squirrel was scampering from limb to limb. It jumped onto a less sturdy tree branch that swayed and dipped. The little one simply held on, seemingly enjoying the ride and trusting his grip until it was time to scamper to the next spot.
I share these analogies in hope that it will encourage someone’s heart this morning.
Don’t let anything block your view of the “Son’s rise” in your life moment by moment. Allow His yoke to keep your vision focused on Him and not whatever blocks your view. May His Light shine brightly upon you.
If you are in a season of willowy starts amongst what seems like a whole bunch of mature and developed “trees”, know that God’s love and light is shining upon you as you grow and you are beautiful.
And finally, if God tells you to jump or scamper to a place where things seem to sway and dip…tighten and trust your hold on the Branch. Feel the breeze as it flows around you and hold on. He’s got you. :)
There were many needs posted yesterday. I am spending time in prayer for each.
From our reading yesterday I pray that we are able ladies to breath in God’s promises for our lives. We can trust Him. In Him we are eternally comforted. We have good hope through grace. We are established in work and word. His steadfast love guides our hearts. He will carry our anxiety as we lay it before Him, for He cares for us. His yoke will give us the strength to stand firm in faith. He restores. He confirms. He strengthens. We are established…we matter, in/to Him.
Ashley Thomas – I praise God for the life and witness of the security guard and ask God’s comfort and peace upon his family and friends.
Kelly M. – Thank you for being a foster parent. Thank you for the safe/loving living environment you provide for the children. May God surround you all and bring help, care, and peace. I see the needs daily in my classroom. My heart applauds you and lifts you all up.
Desiree R. – I agree, if all only loved God – let it start with us and may we be His witness to the world.
Jill – May the Light of God shine upon you and give you peace.
Becky McMoil – May God, our healer, help you in your health struggles. I understand the heartache with your daughter and grandchild. I will pray for you as I do my own situation, that our children and grandchildren will grow closer to the Lord and love Him first and foremost and that God’s peace and restoration will be evident. May we be humble before Him, all of us, as He guides and directs. May we show His love always. And may your husband be guided, even today Lord, to the job that will supply and allow Him an opportunity to serve you and provide for his family.
Deb Ireland – may God hold your heavy heart and may the load lighten as His yoke supports you.
And Deborah D. – Keep praying sister. God loves those children of yours even more than you. He hears your prayers. You are that persistent widow, bringing your kiddos before a the judge…but in this case He is a pure and righteous Judge and Father who loves them even more than you do. The prayers of a righteous man/woman availeth much! God’s word is true.
Those are the ones I wrote down and will continue to bring before our Father, along with praise for His continued guidance and goodness to us all.
The Greek word for idle used in v. 6 and 9 means “unruly, disorderly, out of ranks”.
Idleness, here, is more than laziness, it’s disorder, disruption…it doesn’t just affect the idle person, it affects everyone around them. That might be why Paul “commands” the brothers and sisters in Thessalonica “to keep away from every brother or sister who is idle”.
A willingness, a submission to God’s authority in our work is so necessary to combat idleness.
I like how it says to work quietly. I take this to mean you do everything unto the Lord and nothing for the recognition or promotion of humankind. By the “world’s standards” I am unable to work due to a seizure condition, but I am ABLE to bring God with me wherever I go and whatever I do!! This has been a big lesson for me..to let go of all MY precepts and expectations and simply let GOD come in and take over!! He is BIGGER and He knows ALL, I just need to trust and obey. Not easy, but SO worth it!!! To God be all the Glory!!!
It can be a challenge not to let this pull me down. I haven’t been able to work or study properly for months due to mental health issues. It doesn’t feel like laziness, internal processes are super exhausting as well. I still pressure myself too much in some areas and need to listen to verses about receiving help more. 2nd Corinthians 11:9 said Paul did get help from Macedonia. And still I believe where I can God calls me to serve (without it being anywhere close to enough to pay bills without my parents support which I gladly have), because we are created to give and it will actually help me get better if I feel like I have more purpose. And he will give me the strength for it. Like one thing I can and want to do more is praying for people who don’t know HIM. And encouraging others who struggle. If you do too be blessed ❤️
I love everything about this!!!
Living thankful.
“We do not work for our salvation, yet faithful work blooms out of a life that has been purchased by the finished work of Jesus, rooted in a deep love and affection for Him (Ephesians 3:16–19).” (He Reads Truth).
Work, whether with our hands, hearts, or mind; yoked to Jesus, lightens the load and guides along a path leading to the glory of God and His righteousness.
Thank you Lord.
This is a good lesson. It’s easier for me to do things at home than have the kids pitch in. They grumble and whine, making the job more miserable than needed. But they aren’t learning to work. They are learning to lay low and someone else will do it. My mistake!! The winds of change!!
Same. It’s so much quicker to do it by myself, but I guess that isn’t the point. We need to raise our kids to serve just like we were taught to do.
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Amen, Tina!
“Work is broken by sin and ungodly motivations, but it still belongs to God. He made us to work, and Paul exhorts us to not grow weary in this good, good work of image-bearing, creating, and serving the God who loves us. He has commissioned us to be His ambassadors in this busy, working world.”
As a substitute para educator this year I’ve tried to support students and teachers to the best of my ability. I love the reminder that work belongs to God and we are His ambassadors. May we bring His light wherever our feet step and the shadow of the Spirit touch with those we contact.
Amen
As I get ready to go off to work, Lord God, I pray you prepare me for the day ahead. That whatever I do, say or am, Lord God, I reflect you, that I work as though I am working for you. I pray Lord God that my heart is in whatever I am asked to do, or comes my way… Lord, in the words of St Francis of Assissi, make me (I pray,) I am an instrument of your love, grace, peace, joy, and that my faith and hope in you is evident…
Thank you Lord God, for your grace and your mercies fresh each morning.. Thank you my Lord, my God, Thank you..
Amen.
Praying, sisters His blessing over you wrapped in love and thankfulness for you, Always..❤❤
Whew. Laziness can definitely creep in for me especially since I tend to cycle too hard and take on too much, then I crash and burn. Lord help me to walk and work well. At your pace with a diligent hand at the tasks you’ve set before me, in Jesus Name. Amen.