Lesson 6 - Work Diligently and Honestly
This teaching emphasizes that work is a pre-fall good given by God, not a curse, and should be approached as worship unto the Lord rather than merely earning a paycheck. The discussion explores how believers should view their labor—whether in traditional jobs or personal pursuits—as opportunities for sanctification and glorifying God. The speakers stress that all honest labor leads to profit and that consistency in diligent work, done with integrity and unto Christ, transforms not only individuals but families and communities. The message challenges listeners to reject limiting beliefs about work and income, instead pursuing what they love while maintaining ethical standards rooted in relationship with God. Work becomes a means of serving others, providing for needs, and avoiding becoming a burden, all while understanding that obstacles and difficulties in work are part of God's sanctifying process.
Key Points:
Work is a pre-fall good that existed before sin entered the world, making it inherently good regardless of salvation status
The distinction between viewing work as a negative obligation versus understanding it as worship unto God (Colossians 3:23)
All labor leads to profit when done diligently and honestly, regardless of how low one might esteem the job
To whom much is given, much is required—abundance comes with greater responsibility and requirements
Believers should pursue what they love and figure out how to get paid for it, rather than chasing arbitrary income goals
Idle chatter and excuses lead to poverty, while putting one foot in front of the other leads to profit
Work provides opportunities for sanctification as believers encounter obstacles, friction, and problems
The importance of working honestly without deception, manipulation, or being a busybody concerned with others' affairs
Consistency over time compounds—we overestimate what we can accomplish short-term but underestimate what diligence achieves long-term
Family involvement in productive activities (like running together) exemplifies honoring God through daily actions
Scripture Reference:
Colossians 3:23 - "Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters"
1 Corinthians 10:31 - "Whether you eat or drink, do all things to the glory of God"
Romans 8:28 - "For those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose"
Proverbs 14:23 - "In all labor there is profit, but idle chatter leads only to poverty"
2 Thessalonians 3:10-12 - "If anyone will not work, neither shall he eat... work in quietness and eat their own bread"
Luke 12:48 - "To whom much is given, much is required"
Stories:
Aswan's personal testimony of hearing Colossians 3:23 seven years ago while working two part-time jobs and sleeping in a gym, which transformed his life and led to becoming a six-time published author
The story of Brian Cashman (Yankees GM) asking for a one-year contract to prove he was good enough for the job before demanding long-term compensation
Aswan's experience at a 5K race encountering a family (mother, father, and son) who ran together and then went to a baseball game, exemplifying family worship through active living
Aaron's personal story of having a chaotic week with soccer tournaments, Memorial Day ceremonies, family obligations, and teaching responsibilities, then refocusing on consistency and family worship
The observation that sports figures like Ray Lewis and Tom Brady started doing what they loved at seven years old but didn't get paid until their twenties