Living In The Light

June 10, Blessings Of Physical Labor

In all labor there is profit, but idle chatter leads only to poverty.
—Proverbs 14:23 LL 172.1

Many look upon work as a curse, originating with the enemy of souls. This is a mistaken idea. God gave labor to human beings as a blessing, to occupy their mind, to strengthen their body, and to develop their faculties. Adam toiled in the garden of Eden, and felt it to be one of the pleasures of his holy existence to do so. Later, when he was driven from his beautiful home, as the result of his disobedience, and was forced to struggle with a stubborn soil to gain his daily bread, that very labor, although far different from his pleasant occupation in the garden, was a relief to his sorrowing soul, a protection against temptation. LL 172.2

Judicious labor is a healthful tonic for the human race. It makes the feeble strong, the timid brave, the poor rich, and the wretched happy. Our varied trusts are proportioned to our various abilities. Every person will be rewarded of God according to their individual capacity. He expects corresponding returns for the talents He has given to His servants. It is not the greatness of the talents possessed that determines the reward, but the manner in which they are used, the degree of faithfulness with which the duties of life have been performed, be they great or small. Where much is given much will be required. LL 172.3

Whoever does his work conscientiously and well, whether in the shop, the field, or the pulpit, will be rewarded according to the spirit in which he has worked. LL 172.4

Idleness is the greatest curse that can fall upon human beings; for vice and crime follow in its train. Satan lies in ambush, ready to surprise and destroy those who are unguarded, whose leisure gives him opportunity to insinuate himself into their favor under some attractive disguise. He is never more successful than when he comes to men and women in their idle hours. . . . LL 172.5

God designed that all should be workers, and upon those whose opportunities and abilities are greatest rests the heaviest responsibilities. The patient beasts of burden deserve more commendation than the indolent do-nothing who does not improve his physical and mental powers, refusing to do the tasks which God has set for his accomplishment.— The Health Reformer , September 1876. LL 172.6

Further Reflection: Reflect on how your work could be a blessing to you and others. How can you avoid idle moments that may invite temptation? LL 172.7