A great number of Americans have become very much aware of one of God’s blessings that is becoming hard to experience in the last couple of years, and that is the one of gainful employment.  However, the majority of us are still experiencing this blessing and should be giving thanks to God for it.  As the Hebrew writer said in Hebrews 6:7,  "For the earth which drinketh in the rain that cometh oft upon it, and bringeth forth herbs meet for them by whom it is dressed, receiveth blessing from God.”

     This blessing is embellished by the fact that we live in a country that allows us to make a living as we choose.  We are not told (yet) by our government what work we must do.  It is our choice.  In keeping with that choice, it enables us to cheerfully and fully obey the command that Paul reveals in 2 Thessalonians 3:12: "Now them that are such we command and exhort by our Lord Jesus Christ, that with quietness they work, and eat their own bread.”   

     This blessing of employment allows us to be fruitful unto God (Titus 3:14.)  With this blessing comes great responsibility. We are to assist our family for Paul tells Timothy in 1 Timothy 5:8, "But if any provide not for his own, and specially for those of his own house, he hath denied the faith, and is worse than an infidel.” We are also to share with those in need.  

     In Ephesians 4:28, Paul told the Ephesians "Let him that stole steal no more: but rather let him labour, working with his hands the thing which is good, that he may have to give to him that needeth.”  Our blessing of employment allows us to follow Paul’s exhortation to work with our own hands that we may walk properly in life and to be dependent on no one as stated in 1 Thessalonians 4:11-12.  

     As the richest nation in the world we should, as individuals, turn to God and thank Him for these blessings.  Those of us, who are not experiencing the blessing of employment, should be thanking Him for those who are obedient to His will in helping those less blessed.  In a way, both experience the blessings of work and obedience to God.

Charles Royal, Decatur AL