"Work Ethic"

Sent me way out yonder,

For lost cattle prone to wander,

And little time to ponder,

Which way they might have gone.

Just go on and get after,

And no excuse will matter,

And best you did it faster,

Than your bovine search prolong.

‘Cause many chores are waiting,

And your schedule needs updating,

And time and sweat equating,

To all that must be done.

But first go get those cattle,

And while you’re in the saddle,

There’s little need for rattle,

I’m countin’ on you, son.

And so I’d go and get ‘em,

Now way escape I’d let ‘em,

And I will not forget ‘em,

I always brought ‘em back.

And, yes, the chores were many,

But regrets, I don’t have any,

To cowboy up a-plenty,

And never ask for slack.

I’m thankful for the lesson,

And there is little question,

It made a big impression,

To work the way we did.

So now I’m glad I learned it,

And the hard way earned it,

Though others often spurned it,

I worked hard since just a kid,

And all entitlement be rid.

“For even when we were with you, we used to give you this order: if anyone is not willing to work, then he is to eat, either.” (2 Thessalonians 3:10, NAS)

What are we to make of this advice from the apostle Paul to the church in Thessalonica? Isn’t it a bit harsh? Some think so, but it’s more likely Paul was simply trying to speak the truth in love. He was undoubtedly addressing the problem of laziness and its twin sister, entitlement. I wish I could say this is not a problem today, but clearly it is, and even among some believers. The correct perspective is that working is a blessing and an honor, and God uses it to teach us valuable lessons about handling our lives in accordance with His will. Work is a form of worship, especially for men. Entitlement should be cast out of our thinking entirely.

Lord, help us to work as if we are working for You, in Jesus’ name.

Art by Bill Anton, used by permission. Thanks, Bill, and God bless.