Tasks: Everyday Jobs, Faithful Work

Everyday tasks, faithfully completed, are more than jobs to tick off — they shape character, prove reliability and quietly advance the Kingdom of God.

Work Ethic and Character

Sound work ethics, including a will to work, patience, persistence and motivation, are necessary attributes to see the various tasks on our ‘job sheet’ ticked off, especially when problems arise and there are setbacks. Some jobs also involve times of drudgery — repetitive, unglamorous work that must simply be persevered with — and it is often in these seasons that faithfulness is proven (Lk 16:10). Character is formed by our attitude, response and applying ourselves to the demands and necessities of life. The Bible says, “Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with all your might, as if serving the Lord” (Eccl 9:10; Col 3:22-24).

Keep on top of jobs or they will get on top of you

What sort of reputation do I have? Can others count on me to faithfully endeavour to complete what is expected of me? If so, from this will come increased responsibility and the opportunity for greater reward and blessing (Lk 19:17). Rebekah's generous offer to go beyond what was asked of her — and its faithful fulfillment — resulted in her inclusion in Christ's lineage (Gen 24:14,19-20).

Tasks That Stretch Us

God continually gives us tasks that stretch us beyond our comfort zone, and we acknowledge, “The task is great” — yet we come to the God who is able to help (1 Chr 29:1; Phil 4:13; Heb 4:16). Our talents, ability and previous experiences have been building blocks that helped prepare us for this new challenge, yet in our inadequacy we are forced in faith and humility into reliance on God — a safe and blessed place to be.

The danger lies in the temptation to give up, not inspired by the future reward, or in pride trying to achieve in our own ability (Deut 8:18; Jdg 7:2; 2 Chr 15:7; Prov 24:16; Gal 6:9). The growth that occurs by seeing jobs through to completion means new levels of skill, maturity, usefulness and fruitfulness.

Working Together in God's Kingdom

Paul said, “I consider my life is worth nothing unless I complete the task of sharing the gospel that the Lord gave me” (Act 20:24). Each of us has a specific task or calling to help fulfill the overall task given to all believers — advancing the Kingdom of God (Mt 28:19-20). There should not be any rivalry or jealousy as we are fellow workers in God’s Kingdom, all working for the one common goal (Rom 12:4; 1 Cor 3:3-10). What is my task in the overall divine objective? Am I actively using the gifting I have been given in fulfilling His calling upon my life?

Be fully committed to God's calling on your life

Few believers are involved in ‘full time’ Christian service but the natural tasks of life can be ‘spiritual’ service, whereby we bless others, contribute to society, and so bring honour to God as we “let our light shine” through doing what He has prepared in advance for us to do (Mt 5:14-16; Eph 2:10).

The successful completion of many tasks may involve other people helping as another ‘pair of hands’ or in a particular line of expertise. There is a healthy balance to be found between self-reliance and inter-connection with others. Some people are task orientated, with their satisfaction gained by the completion of their objectives, yet they can exploit those assisting them to achieve those goals. Others are people-orientated, considering relationships more important than accomplishments. Both personality types are needed in God’s Kingdom and we should strive for the right balance in the outworking of His calling on our lives. As we work alongside others, we should be willing to learn from those with more expertise than us, humbly gleaning wisdom and skill from their experience.

Because tasks so often involve times of drudgery and discouragement, we should make a habit of giving people encouragement and genuine compliments for jobs well done. God Himself sets the pattern — He saw each day of creation that “it was good”, and His “Well done, good and faithful servant!” (Mt 25:21,23) is the ultimate compliment, promised to those who persevere. Paul, likewise, was generous in commending his fellow workers by name (Rom 16:1-16), and urged the Philippians to “hold such men in high regard” (Phil 2:29). A word of appreciation costs little, yet it can lift a weary worker’s whole outlook, for “a word fitly spoken is like apples of gold in settings of silver” (Prov 25:11). Scripture directs us to “encourage one another and build each other up” (1 Thes 5:11) and to not “withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to act” (Prov 3:27). So rather than taking others’ efforts for granted, be specific and sincere in thanking and praising them — encouragement fuels the very perseverance that drudgery demands.

Do I help others as readily as I request their help? Do I express appreciation to those who labour alongside me?

Reflection and Application

Complete each assigned task with enthusiasm, as if serving the Lord.
Rely on God's strength rather than striving in your own ability alone.
Help others as readily as you request their help, giving encouragement and sincere compliments for jobs well done.
Use your gifting to play your part in advancing God's Kingdom.