Monday, June 24, 2013

Warning Against Idleness
2 Thessalonians 3:6-15 NIV
6 In the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, we command you, brothers and sisters, to keep away from every believer who is idle and disruptive and does not live according to the teaching[a] you received from us. 7 For you yourselves know how you ought to follow our example. We were not idle when we were with you, 8 nor did we eat anyone’s food without paying for it. On the contrary, we worked night and day, laboring and toiling so that we would not be a burden to any of you. 9 We did this, not because we do not have the right to such help, but in order to offer ourselves as a model for you to imitate. 10 For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: “The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.”
11 We hear that some among you are idle and disruptive. They are not busy; they are busybodies. 12 Such people we command and urge in the Lord Jesus Christ to settle down and earn the food they eat. 13 And as for you, brothers and sisters, never tire of doing what is good.
14 Take special note of anyone who does not obey our instruction in this letter. Do not associate with them, in order that they may feel ashamed. 15 Yet do not regard them as an enemy, but warn them as you would a fellow believer.

I know in our economy right now that not a lot of people have jobs and have been looking for awhile with no luck at finding one.  But you know that we can be working by helping someone in need, a neighbor, friend, etc. I know that it would be nice to have the extra money to be able to do more but some people may just need someone there to lean on.  It is all in the attitude that you put in it.  Don't sit around and letting it get to you because to don't have money to go the extra mile because just being there for someone doing little things maybe the mile that that someone you helped,  needed.  Go help plant a garden or help someone work in their garden you may be blessed with some of their extra bounty.  Work at your church.  Sit with a sick friend.  Babysit a new born so that the mommy can get some well needed sleep, or maybe the other children so she can get some one on one time with one of the other children.  Write we missed you cards to those that didn't come to church on Sunday morning or night or Wednesday night classes.  There are endless possibilities out there, just look for them.
And of course this bible passage is for those that choose not to work but let others do for them but are well capable of doing for themselves.  God knows when we are down and can't work.

When you are trying your best to work and doing things to help others, even if you don't have a steady job, that is nothing to be ashamed of.  When you work, give it your 100% no matter what the task is at hand.  People see that and now what kind of worker you are and that may just be the thing that gets you a better job. 
I hope this encourages you.  I am not trying to down anyone, been there done that.  We, all, need to remember we can work in many different areas until that better job comes our way. 

May God bless you on this wonderful day that He has made,
Kim

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