Day Eleven: That he would have a good work ethic
Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might, for there is no work or thought or knowledge or wisdom in Sheol, to which you are going. –Ecclesiastes 9:10
Some of us have children that are still dreaming about being a fireman or a rock star. And that’s okay because they are still only 5. Others have children that are 26, still living at home off mom and dad, and waiting for their big break into stardom. Others have children that are just miserably trudging along. And still others have adult children that are doing what they wanted to do. No matter where your son fits on that spectrum he is to have a good work ethic.
At first glance that verse—and much of Ecclesiastes–is quite depressing. That is until you realize the whole of what the author is saying; namely, that we’ve only got one life and meaning is only found in Yahweh. The Bible frequently connects the fool with the sluggard. The wise person—that finds life in Yahweh—finds meaning in his work. Therefore, he is to work vigorously at whatever the Lord is calling him to do. Let’s pray today that our sons would have a good work ethic.
Lord, thank you for redeeming work. We know that this side of a redeemed Eden we will continue to toil with sweat. Yet, you have given us meaning and purpose in what we do. I pray that my son would first and foremost find his meaning in You, and from there he would have a stellar work ethic. Help him to be passionate in whatever his hand finds to do. Help him to live with all of his might, for his good and your glory, Amen.
Father in Heaven, God of creation, I lift my sons to you that you would give them a heart to bear your image well in their work. I pray that they would take joy in their work and find your purpose and meaning in their work, whether it is a simple job or an important job. I pray that they would know when it is appropriate and good to rest and take delight in your provision.