“Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might…” (Ecclesiastes 9:10)**
The day after Labor Day…usually a day I dread because, although not technically, it typically means summer’s over and for all intents and purposes, fall begins. It’s a time for work (this is not verbatim from Eccliesastes 3, “A Time for Everything” often quoted, but a paraphrase I’m using for a time to build.’) A time when summer vacations are over, when green trees start to slowly turn color, kids and teachers are back in school, parents say goodbye to college students, and the rest of us…
Renew Our Goals!
Yes, I put an exclamation point on this to try to say it excitedly! Because going back to school or work after summer doesn’t have to be dreadful or anxiety-producing, but inspirational…especially if you feel like you are learning and/or working for God. Anyone and everyone, no matter what training, education or job they find themselves in, or what they aspire to do, can work for God. So what does that look like?
Working for God
To me, looking at my work as if God is my employer means serving Him and others instead of just getting through the day or simply working for a paycheck. It means starting each day asking God to direct my steps, asking for my will…goals, dreams, purpose, work…to be aligned with His. And if you don’t know what all of that is yet…to doing your best to find out through prayer, meditation, asking, and listening for His answer!
A New Season…
Even though it’s the end of summer along with outdoor cookouts and concerts, beach trips, vacations, this new season that begins does bring in some things to look forward to…sweater weather, autumn colors, smells and tastes, and of course, football. If you’re entering a new season personally as well…perhaps of taking on a new job, changing your line and work, starting to fulfill a new goal, or maybe even retiring or semi-retiring, and if you’re a little nervous – or a lot – working for God also can relieve all of that.
…of Freedom, Hope, Joy
Working for God can mean hope, freedom and joy…turning over your fears, doubts, worries, anxiety to the Lord and praying just to follow His direction, one step, one day at a time. It may sound simple, and maybe it can be if we count on His help no matter what. I think I’m ready to tackle this new season after all!
Dear Lord, as I enter this new season of hard work to fulfill my goals and your purpose for me, please take away my doubts and worries so that I may be hopeful and joyful in my work. And help me remember the outcome of my work is in your hands and the results are for your glory, not mine.
Great post, Michele.
I tend to renew my goals in the fall, as well. It seems to be the beginning of a calendar year in expectation of what I will tackle. What will the Lord have in store for this season? We watch and wait, and do what we know until the next step is clear.
Hi Sally, great to hear from you and hope you’re doing well! Yes, September is a lot like January for me! Setting goals, etc. Thanks for your response! Love, Michele