There is nothing better for a person than that he should eat and drink and find enjoyment in his toil. This also, I saw, is from the hand of God, for apart from him who can eat or have enjoyment? Ecclesiastes 2:24-25 ESV

And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him. Colossians 3:17 ESV

Happy Labor Day! I hope everyone has had a wonderful Labor Day weekend with lots of great cookouts, cool drinks, family and friends, and a day off from your labors. Enjoy celebrating you, the worker, no matter your work!

When I was younger, my parents always told me to find something I loved to do, and it really wouldn’t feel like work. Which may be why cleaning my room felt like punishment. I believe their advice was a variation of the Mark Twain quote, “Find a job you enjoy doing, and you will never have to work a day in your life.”

Many of us have worked different jobs over our working years. Some may not have been “Mark Twain” jobs. But hopefully some were. My first paying job was as a babysitter. (I practiced on two younger brothers first.) My first real job was as a hotel maid at fourteen. Also, not a “Mark Twain” job. But after college I was hired as a special education teacher and then I was a stay at home mom when my kids were young. Both definitely “Mark Twain” jobs!

Our first verses for this Labor Day are from Solomon, the wisest man in history. And he had it figured out. He is basically telling us to enjoy not only our work, but to enjoy our lives. Enjoy the food and drink that God provides. Enjoy the work that you do. As God provides this as well.

Paul also gives us all some great advice for our work. Whatever you do, do it from the heart, as something done for the Lord and not for people. Colossians 3:23

This week, as you begin your work at the office or at home or wherever you may be, work with love from the heart, as if you were working for the Lord. This perspective will help all of us with better attitudes toward our work, too! Be joyful!

I thank God for each of you! And I thank you for joining me this Labor Day as we celebrate everyone who works! This Labor Day and every day let’s enjoy our work as we work with love and for the Lord.

Blessings and enjoyment in your labor!