© 2005

Job Satisfaction


Ecclesiastes 3:12 I know that nothing is better for them than to rejoice, and to do good in their lives, and also that every man should eat and drink and enjoy the good of all his labor—it is the gift of God. (NKJV)

In the book of Ecclesiastes, Solomon relates his experience of trying to find happiness by indulging in every possible desire. He had anything and everything that is possible for a person to possess: wealth, power, fame, achievement, success, pleasure or lusts.

When he turned to work for satisfaction, he found that is was monotonous, tedious and futile… apart from God. Having immersed himself in his career, he tried to find contentment, and found nothing but emptiness. He realized it was unfulfilling and dreary; but work done “as unto the Lord” is satisfying and joyful.

Colossians 3:23-24 And whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ. (NKJV)

Any work can be joyful and satisfying if our focus is on God. Digging ditches is sacred when dug as if God had asked you to dig them. Work is just as sacred as church is, when sanctified and dedicated to God's glory.

1 Corinthians 10:31 Therefore, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God. (NKJV)

There is an environment today of complete dissatisfaction at work. We are forever in pursuit of a higher paying job that requires less effort. We believe a “cushy” job will bring us happiness. We climb the ladder of upward mobility in the vain pursuit of the “perfect job” that will fulfill us and bring contentment. It doesn’t exist.

No job, work or occupation done for the purpose
of self-fulfillment, instead of honoring God,
will ever bring contentment.

To the contrary, there is no such thing as a bad job when done “as unto the Lord.” I'm not talking about an immoral or sinful situation where you should NOT be at a job because it is ungodly. Assuming no moral or Biblical prohibition is involved, there is no work too menial or unimportant that it cannot be done to God's glory.

Surveys repeatedly show that the overwhelming majority of people disdain their jobs and are constantly looking for a “better” one. While there is nothing wrong with changing jobs, stop and think of your reasons for wanting it. Is it the natural progression of experience and increase in skills? Or are you looking for that next job because you think somehow you will be happy, if only you had a better job?

1 Timothy 6:6-7 Now godliness with contentment is great gain. For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out. (NKJV)

If you find yourself anxious for a job change today, ask to reveal the true motivation behind it. If you have not learned to be content in whatever circumstance you are in, at any given time; a new job is no going to change things.

"No job, work or occupation done for the purpose of self-fulfillment, instead of honoring God, will ever bring contentment. "

Our God, help us to find contentment apart from circumstances, including our jobs. Help us to understand that any job, any task and any responsibility is holy if done whole heartedly for your glory. In Jesus Name, Amen.


 

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