Proper & Good Order

“…all things must be done properly and in an orderly manner”
1 Corinthians 14:40

The Apostle Paul wrote those words in conclusion to his message on how the church and its gifts should operate. We are members of this same church, should we not follow the same principles in our own lives?

Yes, we are to conduct our lives in an orderly fashion—or in twenty-first century lingo, we need to be organized and diligent about the Lord’s work, and any work in general. To learn how to work for the Lord Jesus Christ he’s blessed us with tutors here on earth that test our ability to work under their authority and to accomplish the tasks that they present to us—these we should do 'as unto the Lord'. 1

One of the common workplace problems in laziness. Laziness is not a Christian virtue, some Christians believe so, but they are wrong. The example of our faith, Jesus Christ was not a lazy man—he was daily seeking His Father’s guidance, daily progressing towards a goal. Laziness is the desire to-not follow diligence, prudence, or accomplishment—it just exists, uninvolved without motivation. 2

A common fallacy is that diligence in the workplace requires swiftness of action, overly prompt responses, and breakneck attention in decisions. These are all false. Diligence once mixed with prudence will prompt a willingness to do whatever to accomplish the task. Diligence is continual re-focus on the goal—task accomplishment with recognition that everything is important and vital, people being most precious. 3

There is a major difference between laziness and fear of success. Some are simply paralyzed by new stimuli (the computer for example), new information that they are taking in, and the unknown—they desire to work hard but do not know what to do or where to begin. With these good people show mercy and understanding and care. Recognize that they need help and try to help them as best as you can; you will win a friend and benefit the accomplishment of the goal.

Are you motivated at work?
Do you make the supervisor’s goals, yours?
Are you lazy at work?
Are you paralyzed by new technology?

Heavenly Father, you are with us in the workplace and your desire is for us to shine as lights and demonstrate your example. In our own strength, this simply is not possible—help us, guide us—all things are possible with you! Help us to help others—that is what you would do and that’s what you would have us do.

1. "Servants, be obedient to them that are your masters according to the flesh, with fear and trembling, in singleness of your heart, as unto Christ Ephesians 6:5-6; Not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but as the servants of Christ, doing the will of God from the heart"; "Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eyeservice, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God Colossians 3:22."[KJV]

2. "Never be lazy in your work, but serve the Lord enthusiastically" [NLT] Romans 12:11; "He also that is slothful in his work is brother to him that is a great waster". [KJV] Proverbs 18:9

3. "The plans of the diligent lead surely to advantage,But everyone who is hasty comes surely to poverty". [NAS] Proverbs 21:5; "The slothful man roasteth not that which he took in hunting: but the substance of a diligent man is precious". [KJV] Proverbs 12:27