But you be strong! Don’t let your hands be slack, for your work will be rewarded.
–2 Chronicles 15:7
In today’s verse, the prophet Azariah isn’t speaking of building or plowing or laboring for livelihood.
He is encouraging those downtrodden from war, surrounded by idol worship. “You can clean up your community,” he tells them. “You can rewrite the laws. You can inspire those around you to stop their godlessness and seek the one true God. You can! Don’t give up. Persevere and God will return His favor to you. You will seek Him and find Him. He will give your land peace.”
Today, we could all use some peace in the lands we claim as our own — our families, our neighborhoods, our country. We can take Azariah’s encouragement to heart.
Don’t give up on your wayward child, your distant spouse, your godless neighbor, or those reckless leaders around you. Jesus would remind you that you are the light of the world. Don’t put out your own flame. Keep praying for change. Keep writing letters, sending texts, making calls, attending community meetings, or doing whatever you are wired and inspired by God to do.
We all have a gift that will spread His kingdom. Keep at it!
If you don’t get to enjoy the fruit of your labor on earth, then there will be a reward for you in Heaven.
Prayer
Dear Lord, May I never tire of working for you. Help me to look to You for my inspiration and for my strength. Thank You for Your blessings and for Your protection. I love You. In Jesus’ name I pray, Amen.
Reflection
What is God inspiring me to do to bring greater glory to Him?