If you’re like me, when you read the book of Proverbs, you’re probably amazed at the wisdom of Solomon. He penned those proverbs in his earlier years as king. Then, something happened (not sure what) to make him became a bit cynical in his later years. He continued writing, but his words sounded like he was rethinking his own proverbs. As a result, we get the book of Ecclesiastes. If you’ve never read the book, I encourage you to take time to check it out. Caution: It can sound a bit depressing, but Solomon redeems himself at the end. It’s worth reading all the way through.
One question in particular stands out in Ecclesiastes, and it’s one we should all ask from time to time, especially at the beginning of this new year:
“For whom am I toiling and why am I depriving myself of enjoyment?” Ecclesiastes 4:8
The Lord actually wants us to enjoy our work on earth. Check out these additional verses:
“A man can do nothing better than to eat and drink and find satisfaction in his work. This too, I see, is from the hand of God, for without him, who can eat or find enjoyment?” (2:22).
“I know that there is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good while they live. That everyone may eat and drink, and find satisfaction in all his toil–this is the gift of God” (3:12-13).
How can we enjoy what we do? By recognizing our own strengths and talents and using them to the fullest. May I encourage you to take time in 2019 to get better acquainted with yourself and discover and build on your own strengths? (Check out StrengthsFinder 2.0). Then, if you’re dissatisfied in your current occupation, be bold enough to make a change and develop skills around your God-given strengths.
Remember – Enjoyment in our work is a gift from God. Open it and use it.
What changes will you make in 2019 so you enjoy your work more?
Great question to start the year! But do all the right choices make us happy? If we’re unhappy, does that mean we aren’t doing what God wants us to do?