Learn to live in rest
14 de julho de 2023
The Art of Contentment
16 de janeiro de 2025
Base Texts:
Philippians 4:4 “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice.”
Psalm 100:2 “Serve the Lord with gladness; come before His presence with singing.”
Serving God is both a privilege and a responsibility. As workers in His Kingdom, we are called to be steadfast and consistent, balancing our personal and professional lives with our service to the Lord. In Philippians 4:4, Paul reminds us that joy in the Lord should fuel our journey. Additionally, Psalm 100 teaches us that service to the Lord should be carried out with enthusiasm and gratitude. Let us reflect on how we can be balanced, dedicated, and joyful workers in our service.
- Rejoice Always in the Lord
Joy in the Lord does not depend on external circumstances but is an inner decision based on our trust in God. Paul wrote his letter to the Philippians while imprisoned, yet his joy-filled message contrasts sharply with his circumstances. This demonstrates a stark difference from much of today’s teachings that often link joy to favourable conditions.
As workers, we face challenges: fatigue, criticism, and, at times, discouragement. Even so, we must remember the call to serve the Lord with gladness (Psalm 100:2). Paul addresses joy throughout Philippians as follows:
- Chapter 1: Joy in suffering– A counter-cultural perspective.
- Chapter 2: Joy in serving– A Kingdom-focused mindset.
- Chapter 3: Joy in believing– Trusting God’s sovereignty.
- Chapter 4: Joy in giving– A stewardship vision.
- Be Steadfast and Consistent in Service
1 Corinthians 15:58 exhorts us: “Therefore, my beloved brothers, be steadfast, immovable, always abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing that in the Lord your labour is not in vain.” Workers often face periods of discouragement and doubt about the impact of their efforts. However, we must remember that God is faithful to reward every sincere and dedicated effort.
- Avoid Idleness and Maintain Balance in Life
Idleness poses a danger to workers in God’s Kingdom. A lack of dedication can lead to spiritual apathy. Proverbs 6:6-8 encourages us to learn from the ant: diligent and focused on its mission.
At the same time, we must avoid extremes. On one hand, we should not neglect our family or professional responsibilities. As 1 Timothy 5:8 reminds us: “If anyone does not provide for his relatives, and especially for members of his household, he has denied the faith.” On the other hand, we must not abandon God’s work. Jesus’ words in Matthew 6:33 guide us: “Seek first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.”
- Work with an Eternal Perspective
Everything we do should focus on eternity. Colossians 3:23-24 teaches us: “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward.”
Throughout Scripture, God used tools and circumstances to fulfil His will:
- Samson– a jawbone of a donkey.
- David– a sling.
- Moses– a staff.
- Paul– chains, which spread the Gospel. As Paul affirmed, “As long as Christ is preached.”
Service should not be viewed as an obligation but as an opportunity to please God and impact lives for His Kingdom.
As workers, we are called to rejoice in the Lord, remain steadfast and consistent, and balance our responsibilities. Remember, it will be worth it. Every sacrifice, prayer, and effort in service to the Lord will be rewarded. Do not let discouragement overwhelm you; serve with the joy of knowing you are sowing for eternity.
Renew your commitment to God today. Reaffirm your joy in service, ask for wisdom to balance your life, and trust that God will be faithful to reward your dedication. Let us serve with gladness and come before His presence with singing, confident that our labour is not in vain.
Fabio Eduardo, pastor
